PUTRAJAYA: The Health Ministry has cautioned its officers to remain professional and alert when stationed at thermal scanner desks at airports to prevent the transmission of infectious diseases.
Its minister, Datuk Seri Dr Dzulkefly Ahmad, said two of its officers were issued show-cause letters for failing to properly perform their duties while stationed at Kuala Lumpur Airport 2 (klia2) recently.
A video clip has gone viral on social media showing an operator at klia2’s thermal scanners asleep at the desk. Another staff member in the booth is also seen preoccupied with his mobile phone.
In the wake of the recent polio cases in Sabah and the Influenza A outbreak nationwide, the clip has raised alarm among many who fear that travellers carrying infectious diseases could easily pass through the gates.
“All healthcare professionals have been briefed on their role, and the importance of each employee to properly monitor screening as per procedures. Also, supervision of staff has been enhanced.
“The two officers involved in this incident will be investigated,” he told reporters after presenting the ministry’s New Year mandate here, today.
Thermal scanners have been installed at international airports and other entry points across Malaysia to ensure that all visitors undergo health screening.
Some 120 cases of Influenza A, involving one death, have been reported in Penang, Selangor, Pahang and Negri Sembilan since the start of 2020.
On Dec 8, Malaysia saw its first polio case in nearly three decades. And in 2017, the Health Ministry disclosed that there were some 25,000 tuberculosis cases resulting in more than 1,900 deaths.