A senior Ministry of Health official has reiterated that Covid-19 patients who are receiving treatment at home must be hospitalised for specialised care if their conditions worsen.

Health ministry spokeswoman Or Vandine reaffirmed this to reporters on January 26.

“To all of those who are being treated at home, please continue to self-isolate from your families and take good care to follow all of the advice we have given to protect your health and your community,” she said.

Prime Minister Hun Sen announced on January 21 that all Covid-19 patients could isolate at their homes, provided they followed the guidelines issued by the Inter-ministerial Committee to Combat Covid-19.

Vandine also mentioned the US-made drug Molnupiravir, used for the treatment of Covid-19, saying that patients should consult with doctors and take their advice regarding this medication.

“This drug is only to be used for individuals with mild to moderate symptoms, and those with severe symptoms should not be at home but in hospital,” she added.

The ministry has authorised the emergency use of Molnupiravir to treat Covid-19.

According to an authorisation letter issued by health minister Mam Bun Heng on November 3, the medication is a pill manufactured by pharmaceutical giant Merck’s. Clinical trials run in the US have proven that it is safe and highly effective in the treatment of Covid-19.

Vandine noted that pregnant women and women who are breastfeeding should avoid the drug, because have not yet been clear studies on its possible effects on these women.