Kuala lumpur: A total of 85 per cent of tuberculosis (TB) cases reported in Malaysia involve local citizens, with only 15 per cent involving foreigners, according to Health Minister Datuk Seri Dr Dzulkefly Ahmad. He highlighted that the common perception of TB being linked to the influx of foreigners is inaccurate, as the Health Ministry’s data indicates a higher number of cases among Malaysians.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, Dr Dzulkefly emphasized the real threat of TB transmission within the local community. He noted that TB is not a new issue in public health but remains an endemic disease requiring significant attention. The disease is not only a clinical concern but also connected to socio-economic factors such as crowded living conditions and malnutrition.

Dr Dzulkefly explained that while the Mycobacterium Tuberculosis germ is persistent, it is preventable, treatable, and fully curable if detected early. Early detection and adherence to a six-month antibiotic treatment regimen are crucial for recovery. He urged the public to be vigilant about symptoms like a persistent cough, fever, night sweats, and weight loss, and to seek immediate treatment.

He also advised against stigmatizing TB patients, stressing the importance of emotional support from family and community to ensure patients complete their treatment. As a preventive measure, parents should ensure their children receive the Bacillus Calmette-Guerin (BCG) immunization, maintain a healthy lifestyle, and ensure good home ventilation.

Dr Dzulkefly reaffirmed the ministry’s commitment to enhancing active detection strategies and collaborating with various agencies through a whole-of-government approach to eradicate TB in Malaysia. “Together, let’s protect our families and communities,” he concluded.