GEORGE TOWN: Penang has recorded two cases of the Covid-19 Omicron variant as of yesterday.
Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow said he was informed by the state Health Department that the two cases were imported infections from abroad, stressing that the state took the matter seriously.
He said the two cases involved individuals who returned from Saudi Arabia after performing the umrah.
He added that both patients were now under quarantine at the hospital for further observation.
"Contact tracing is also being conducted as a precautionary measure.
"We will take all the necessary measures to ensure this variant does not spread in the community," he told newsmen today after distributing 2022 calendars to traders and visitors at Campbell Street, here.
Chow also reminded all eligible Penangites to take their Covid-19 booster shots and continue to follow the standard operating procedures (SOP) set.
"We have enough vaccination centres (PPV), hospitals and clinics to cater for those who want to get their booster shots.
"As of now, this is our best defence against Covid-19.
"We want to avoid the Covid-19 spread among the community," he added, stressing that everyone should play their role.