Ask the Doctor: How to treat mild Covid-19 symptoms at home?

Malaysia continues to see skyrocketing Covid-19 infection numbers with 13,944 new cases recorded as of 8 February. But this figure comes as no surprise since Health Minister Khairy Jamaluddin has warned that daily infections will soon breach the 15,000 mark as Malaysia is now “fully into the Omicron wave”.

Health director-general Tan Sri Dr Noor Hisham Abdullah has announced recently that individuals who have tested positive for Covid-19 and are in categories 1 and 2A but not at high risk do not need to go to the Covid-19 assessment centre (CAC) and are instead required to self-monitor at home.

So, you have tested positive for Covid-19. What are the next steps? We speak to our anchor doctor Dr Moo Shyn Meng Benjamin to learn how you can manage your mild Covid-19 symptoms at home.

What is the first thing I should do?

Because Covid-19 primarily spreads from person to person through close contact, it is important to not only isolate yourself at home, but also to distance yourself from your household members. Should you have to share a bathroom with them, it must be disinfected after each use to prevent spreading of the virus.

You will also be required to report your Covid-19 status on MySejahtera along with daily self-monitoring through the Health Assessment Tool (HAT) also available on the application.

What medicine can I take for Covid-19?

“It depends on the symptoms that you are experiencing. Patients in Category 2A and above can take medication such as flu and cough syrup to help alleviate their symptoms,” explained Dr Ben.

It is important to seek emergency medical care in the event that the symptoms worsen. Do monitor your health and see a doctor immediately if you experience any of the following:

• persistent fever for two days or more

• breathing difficulty when doing activities

• chest pain

• loss of appetite

• tiredness

• experiencing worsening symptoms (cough, nausea, vomiting or diarrhoea)

• low level of consciousness

• less urination within 24 hours.

What food should I consume if I have Covid-19?

Losing your taste buds might be disheartening. But to help your body regain energy, you’d need proper nourishment.

"Prioritise unprocessed foods and items high in minerals and antioxidants to replenish your body's supply. Double down on fruits, vegetables, legumes, whole grains like starchy brown rice or wheat, and lean meats when possible," emphasized Dr Ben.

How long do I need to isolate myself?

If you have tested positive,

Experiencing mild symptoms of Covid-19? Consult a licensed doctor directly from home via Doctor Anywhere. We deliver your medication straight to your doorstep in 3 hours.