NINE more positive Covid-19 cases have been detected among the hawkers and traders in the vicinity of the Bandar Baru Air Itam Market Complex.
State Tourism and Creative Economy Committee chairman Yeoh Soon Hin said the nine cases were detected yesterday (Sept 8) after Covid-19 RTK Antigen swab tests were conducted on the hawkers and traders.
“The swab tests were conducted on more than 200 hawkers and traders as a precautionary measure to ensure public safety. Five positive cases were recorded within the same vicinity the previous week.
“The details of the positive cases have been submitted to the Penang Island City Council (MBPP) and the Northeast District Health Office. Quick responses by the relevant authorities are needed to combat Covid-19.
“I urge the MBPP and District Health Office to hasten the closure of the market complex to prevent further infection to the community and to avoid the emergence of new clusters,” he said in a media statement this morning.
Yeoh, who is the Paya Terubong assemblyman, said that the market complex is frequented by many locals.
“We must ensure safety and good hygiene to prevent the spread of Covid-19,” he added.