BY James Kon

Brunei Darussalam’s daily new COVID-19 cases rose to 399 on Wednesday, bringing the total number of cases reported in the Sultanate to 151,560.

Of these, 394 were from antigen rapid tests (ARTs) and five from 269 RT-PCR laboratory tests performed in the past 24 hours.

One COVID-19 patient passed away but was not categorised as death due to COVID-19.

The updates on the COVID-19 situation was shared by Minister of Health Dato Seri Setia Dr Haji Mohd Isham bin Haji Jaafar at the daily press conference on Wednesday.

In light of the fatality, the minister said, “Representing the Ministry of Health as well as the people of Brunei Darussalam, we express our deepest condolences to the deceased’s family.

“May the soul of the deceased receive blessings and be placed amongst the pious.”

Meanwhile on Tuesday, 101 first doses and 893 second doses of the COVID-19 vaccine were given to children aged five to 11 bringing the coverage rate of children to 82.8 per cent for the first dose and 60.9 per cent for the second dose.

Meanwhile, the coverage rate for the country’s citizens and residents who have received three doses of the vaccine is at 71.3 per cent.

The minister noted that there are no cases in Category 5 requiring treatment in the intensive care unit.

However, there are three cases in Category 4 requiring respiratory assistance and close monitoring.

Dato Seri Setia Dr Haji Mohd Isham also revealed that “226 cases have recovered, bringing the total number of recoveries to 148,610.”

“There are 2,726 active cases, with 12 cases receiving treatment in hospitals and 2,714 cases undergoing home self-isolation,” he added.

Also in attendance was Deputy Permanent Secretary (Professional) at the Ministry of Health Dr Ang Swee Hui.

-- Courtesy of Borneo Bulletin