SANDAKAN, Oct 9 — The Sandakan Sports Complex here will be turned into a Covid-19 Treatment Centre for stable Covid-19 patients, said Duchess of Kent Hospital (HDOK) director Dr Francis Paul today.
He said preparations to convert the complex’s multi purpose hall into a 200-bed ward began today, and it is expected to be in operation within the next week.
“The Sandakan Sports Complex became an alternative to accommodate Covid-19 patients following a drastic rise in positive Covid-19 cases in Sandakan.
“The rise in numbers could lead to over-capacity at HDOK,” he said in a statement here today.
Dr Francis thanked the Sandakan Municipal Council, Sandakan Disaster Operation Control Centre (PKOB) and Sabah Sports Board for allowing the use of the sports complex as an alternative treatment centre.
“HDOK also thanks the Sandakan Social Welfare Department for lending barrier screens for use at the (alternative) treatment centre,” he said.
In view of the sharp rise in Covid-19 cases in Sandakan, Dr Francis has advised Sandakan folks to continue with all precautionary measures and adhere to the standard operating procedure to prevent a further spread of the virus.
The 14-day conditional movement control order (CMCO) came into force in Sandakan today.
Sandakan became a red zone on October 6, just seven days after the district went from green to yellow zone.
As of yesterday, Sandakan has a total of 152 active cases.
— Bernama
