KUALA LUMPUR: Dr Zaliha Mustafa, the Health Minister, stated that the Health Ministry is constantly vigilant for any potential new pandemic, including a hypothetical disease known as “Disease X” originating from an as-yet-unknown pathogen.
The Health Minister mentioned that the World Health Organisation (WHO) will notify member countries if there is an outbreak of a new disease.
“Disease X” is its temporary name until it is identified. However, the ministry remains prepared for any situation.
Dr Zaliha informed reporters at Hospital Kuala Lumpur (HKL) on Monday (Sept 25) that this topic wasn’t discussed during recent meetings with other health ministers at the United Nations, trusting that the WHO will keep them informed.
There is speculation among global experts that an undiscovered virus named “Disease X” has the potential to cause a more severe pandemic than Covid-19.
Earlier, Dr Zaliha attended HKL’s handing-over ceremony for its new Urology and Nephrology Institute building.
The new building will supplement the existing facilities with 252 additional beds, 34 more acute haemodialysis unit points, 14 intensive care unit beds, and six high dependency unit beds.
In addition, the new building is equipped with five prefabricated modular operating theatres (OTs) and related facilities.
“The use of prefabricated metal wall and ceiling panels in modular OTs allows for time-saving renovations and maintenance of operating rooms,” she explained.
Works Minister Datuk Seri Alexander Nanta Linggi was also present at the ceremony.
Credit: The Star : News Feed
