Ten new active tuberculosis (TB) clusters have been detected across seven states, with Selangor recording the highest number of clusters, Health Minister Datuk Seri Dr Dzulkefly Ahmad announced during Minister’s Question Time.
According to Dr Dzulkefly, the breakdown of the new TB clusters is as follows:
- Selangor: 4 clusters, 10 cases
- Johor: 1 cluster, 37 cases (29 children and 8 adults; index case a 72-year-old religious teacher in Kota Tinggi)
- Kedah: 1 cluster, 2 cases
- Kelantan: 1 cluster, 2 cases
- Pahang: 1 cluster, 4 cases
- Perlis: 1 cluster, 2 cases
- Sabah: 1 cluster, 5 cases
The Minister said that screening measures have been prioritised in high-risk locations such as boarding schools, prisons, and worker hostels to prevent further transmission. These measures are conducted in accordance with the Tuberculosis Information System Manual (TBIS 2018) and include:
- Symptom screening for persistent cough, fever, loss of appetite, and weight loss
- Clinical examinations of the lungs
- Chest X-rays and sputum testing (microscopy and culture)
Control measures also include early treatment for those diagnosed with active TB and preventive therapy for close contacts who may have latent TB. Treatment is closely monitored through Directly Observed Therapy (DOT) at the nearest health facility. Symptomatic individuals are additionally advised to follow proper cough etiquette, covering their mouth and nose when coughing or sneezing.
Dr Dzulkefly emphasised that continuous monitoring of TB clusters is critical to improving early detection and ensuring quality healthcare delivery.
Highlighting the Kota Tinggi cluster in Johor, he said the case should serve as a wake-up call for the nation. “The index case, a 72-year-old religious teacher, led to the identification of 903 close contacts, with 37 confirmed cases involving 29 children and 8 adults,” he said. All affected individuals are currently receiving treatment at nearby health facilities.
