PUTRAJAYA, Feb 21 (Bernama) -- A total of 596 new tuberculosis (TB) cases were reported nationwide up to Epidemiological Week Six (EW 6/2026), bringing the cumulative number this year to 3,161.
In a statement today, the Ministry of Health (MOH) said Sabah recorded the highest number of cases at 755, followed by Selangor (596), Sarawak (332), Johor (280), and Kuala Lumpur and Putrajaya (244).
Other states recorded the following cases: Kedah (181), Penang (172), Perak (154), Kelantan (121), Pahang (103), Terengganu (74), Negeri Sembilan (62), Melaka (48), Perlis (21) and Labuan (18).
MOH stressed that Ramadan is not the cause of TB transmission. However, increased social gatherings during the month may lead to closer and more frequent contact among people.
As such, the public is advised to practise proper cough and sneeze etiquette, ensure good ventilation in enclosed areas, wear a face mask if experiencing symptoms or when in crowded places, and seek medical attention if they have a cough lasting more than two weeks or other related symptoms.
The ministry said the risk of infection is higher in crowded, poorly ventilated spaces, especially if there is someone with active TB who has not received treatment.
“However, the actual risk depends on factors such as duration of exposure, ventilation and individual health status,” the statement said.
-- BERNAMA
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