The Ministry of Health (MOH) has confirmed 596 new tuberculosis (TB) infections nationwide for Epidemiological Week Six (EW 6/2026), raising the cumulative total for the year to 3,161 cases.
Sabah continues to record the highest number of cases, with 755 infections reported so far this year. Selangor follows with 596 cases, while Sarawak has logged 332. Johor recorded 280 cases, and the federal territories of Kuala Lumpur and Putrajaya reported a combined total of 244.
Other states reporting infections include Kedah (181), Penang (172), Perak (154), Kelantan (121), Pahang (103), Terengganu (74), Negeri Sembilan (62), Melaka (48), Perlis (21) and Labuan (18).
In a statement, the ministry emphasised that the fasting month of Ramadan does not cause TB transmission. However, it noted that increased social interactions and gatherings during the period may result in closer and more frequent contact among individuals.
MOH advised the public to practise proper cough and sneeze etiquette, ensure adequate ventilation in enclosed spaces and wear face masks if experiencing symptoms or when in crowded settings. Individuals with a cough lasting more than two weeks are urged to seek medical attention promptly.
The ministry cautioned that the likelihood of infection rises in congested and poorly ventilated environments, particularly if an individual with active and untreated TB is present. Nevertheless, it stressed that the actual risk of transmission depends on factors such as duration of exposure, ventilation quality and an individual’s health condition.
Health authorities reiterated the importance of early detection and community awareness to curb further spread of the disease.
