KUALA LUMPUR:There are still many who do not understand the transmission and effects of the COVID-19 epidemic in the long run.

In saying so, Head of Medical and Health Cluster, Academy of Professors Malaysia, Prof Dr Adlina Suleiman was worried that most people were still underestimating the implementation of the health standard operating procedures (SOP).

"Even though we know how the epidemic is spreading, we still do not understand much about other ways how it can be transmitted and what the effects are on the body.

"Many people think that if they are young and they are infected (with COVID-19), it is not considered bad at all.

"But we do not know, in the long run, whether the infection will involve other organs. That we do not know," said Dr Adlina.

Speaking to Astro AWANI when contacted on Thursday, she said it was better for all parties who have just returned from Sabah to isolate themselves.

"No matter politicians or anyone, it is better not to leave home for 14 days and we ourselves make the SOP and isolate ourselves at home.

"This is not only for self-interest but for the safety of family and others.

"If there are older family members or children at home, try to avoid having close contact with them," she said.

On Thursday, Malaysia recorded 260 cases of COVID-19 infection of which only one was an import case.

The Ministry of Health has confirmed that almost all states have recorded cases of coronavirus, most of which involved travellers from Sabah.