He added that in Kuala Lumpur, Selangor, Penang, Sarawak, Kedah and Perak, the rate is even higher and with some hospitals now at full capacity.

“This is despite the number of ICU beds being constantly increased to meet the demand,” he said in a Facebook post last night.

According to Noor Hisham, there are 1,388 ICU beds in total in 78 hospitals and teaching hospitals.

“This is the total available for both Covid-19 and non-Covid-19 cases. From this number, we have allocated 850 ICU beds for Covid-19 patients.

“However, the total number of ICU beds for Covid-19 patients is increased from time to time when there is a need,” he said.

As of yesterday, the health ministry reported 42,135 active cases with 482 patients being treated in ICUs and 250 requiring respiratory assistance.

Noor Hisham said that in the event that the number of critical Covid-19 patients was reduced at a hospital, the ICU beds allocated for Covid-19 cases might also be reduced by the state health department so that more non-Covid-19 patients could be admitted to the ICU.

“To increase preparedness, hospitals have also been told to repurpose other areas in the hospital, such as regular wards, to be used as temporary ICUs by upgrading the wards with the relevant medical equipment.”

Noor Hisham also said there had been an increase in the number of Covid-19 patients who have serious symptoms and require respiratory assistance, especially among the elderly and those with co-morbidities.

“Therefore, I appeal to all Malaysians to continue to comply with the SOPs. Get out of the house only when needed and avoid going to crowded areas. Let’s all break the chain of Covid-19,” he added.

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