PONTIAN: No special standard operating procedures (SOP) have been introduced at Ramadan bazaars despite the rise in tuberculosis (TB) cases of late, says Johor executive councillor Ling Tian Soon.
The state health and environment committee chairman said the number of TB cases is still under control, and the Health Ministry has a clear set of guidelines on the handling, treating and monitoring of such cases at all health clinics.
“Every district has TB cases, but the situation is under control. The ministry is monitoring the situation closely.
“The public is advised to wear a facemask as a precautionary measure in crowded places,” he told reporters after visiting the Ramadan bazaar at the Pontian mini stadium on Tuesday (Feb 24).
On Feb 21, the Health Ministry urged the public to stay vigilant against TB, particularly in crowded and enclosed settings.
The ministry said 596 new TB cases were reported nationwide during the sixth epidemiological week, with Sabah recording the highest number with 755, followed by Selangor with 596 cases and Sarawak with 332.
Johor ranked next with 280 cases, while Kuala Lumpur and Putrajaya recorded 244 cases.
Meanwhile, Ling said the state Health Department had received a public complaint against a Ramadan bazaar trader in Ulu Tiram, Johor Baru, as of Tuesday.
“The complaint was regarding the cleanliness of the stall.
“Health officials are investigating the matter before deciding on the necessary actions, such as issuing a compound or temporary closure of 14 days,” he said.
Since the first day of Ramadan on Feb 19, the Health Department has issued 16 compounds worth RM2,350 against traders for violating the Food Hygiene Regulation 2009, he added.
