PETALING JAYA: Some 85% of reported tuberculosis (TB) cases in the country involved Malaysians, says Datuk Seri Dr Dzulkefly Ahmad (pic).
The Health Minister said this data is contrary to public sentiment, as foreigners account for only 15% of reported TB cases.
“Recently, various perceptions have emerged linking the spread of TB to the influx of foreign nationals. However, the facts show otherwise.
“Data from the Health Ministry confirms that 85% of reported cases involve local citizens, while only 15% involve foreigners.
“This means the risk of transmission within our own communities is real and must not be taken lightly,” he said in a Facebook post yesterday.
He added that the disease is not merely a clinical issue but also a “disease of poverty” as it is closely associated with socio-economic factors such as overcrowded living conditions and malnutrition.
“The bacterium, mycobacterium tuberculosis, is highly resilient but the good news is that TB can be prevented, treated and fully cured if detected early,” he said, adding that patients must adhere to at least six months of antibiotic treatment.
He noted that TB is not a new phenomenon affecting the country.
“In fact, it has existed for a long time and remains an endemic disease that requires serious attention from all parties.”
The minister urged the public to be aware of symptoms associated with the disease and to take preventive measures.
“Seek medical attention immediately if you have a cough lasting more than two weeks, fever or night sweats and unexplained weight loss.
“Take preventive steps and ensure children receive the BCG immunisation, and practise a healthy lifestyle with good home ventilation.”
He also called on the public to put an end to the stigma against those with TB.
“Do not ostracise patients.
“Emotional support from family and the community is key to helping them complete treatment.”
He said his ministry remains committed to strengthening its active case detection strategy and working with various agencies through a whole-of-government approach to end TB endemicity.
On Monday, the Health Ministry said a total of 503 new TB cases were detected nationwide as of the fifth epidemiological week of this year, bringing the cumulative total to 2,571 cases.
Sabah recorded the highest number of cases at 614, followed by Selangor (476), Sarawak (257), Johor (233), as well as Kuala Lumpur and Putrajaya (202).
