Sabah leads TB cases nationwide, Sarawak third highest with 332

KUCHING (Feb 22): Sarawak recorded 332 tuberculosis (TB) cases as of Epidemiological Week 6 this year, placing the state third highest nationwide in terms of cumulative infections, according to the Ministry of Health (MOH).

The ministry, in statement issued Saturday, said the state’s cases accounted for 10.5 per cent of the 3,161 cases reported in the country.

Nationally, a total of 596 new TB infections were detected in Epidemiological Week 6.

Sabah recorded the highest number of cases at 755 (23.88 per cent), followed by Selangor with 596 cases (18.85 per cent). Johor reported 280 cases (8.86 per cent) while the Federal Territories of Kuala Lumpur and Putrajaya recorded 244 cases (7.72 per cent).

Other states reporting cases were Kedah with 181, Pulau Pinang (172), Perak (154), Kelantan (121), Pahang (103), Terengganu (74), Negeri Sembilan (62), Melaka (48), Perlis (21) and Labuan (18).

MOH reminded the public that TB is an airborne infectious disease that spreads when a person with active pulmonary TB coughs, speaks or sneezes. However, it stressed that TB does not spread as rapidly as influenza or Covid-19 and usually requires prolonged and repeated exposure.

With Ramadan underway, the ministry advised the public to remain vigilant as social activities such as bazaar visits and breaking-of-fast gatherings could increase close interactions.

“The risk of transmission may increase if exposure occurs over a long period in enclosed, crowded and poorly ventilated spaces, especially where there is an untreated active TB case,” the statement said.

However, MOH clarified that Ramadan itself is not the cause of TB transmission.

It urged the public to practise proper cough and sneeze etiquette, ensure good ventilation in enclosed areas, wear face masks if symptomatic or in crowded places, and seek medical attention if experiencing a cough lasting more than two weeks.

The ministry emphasised that community awareness is key to early detection and effective treatment, adding that collective action is necessary to ensure the fasting month is observed safely and in good health.