Malaysia is experiencing a rise in tuberculosis (TB) cases, with ten new clusters detected across seven states as of . The state of Johor currently reports the highest number of cases, with 37 infections identified, including a cluster impacting students in Kota Tinggi.
Health Minister Datuk Seri Dzulkefly Ahmad announced on that the Kota Tinggi cluster includes six students, three of whom have already recovered. A total of 2,571 TB cases were reported nationally between and , according to local media reports.
The emergence of these clusters comes as many Singaporeans prepare to travel to Malaysia for the upcoming Chinese New Year and Ramadan holidays, prompting health experts to advise caution. While authorities are not currently recommending deferring travel plans, preventative measures are being highlighted.
TB is an airborne infectious disease caused by the bacterium Mycobacterium tuberculosis, primarily affecting the lungs. Symptoms include a persistent cough, fever, coughing up blood, night sweats, and unexplained weight loss. The disease remains endemic in both Malaysia and Singapore, existing permanently within the community alongside illnesses like dengue and influenza.
In , Singapore’s Ministry of Health reported 1,156 new cases of active TB disease in , representing an incidence rate of 27.6 cases per 100,000 residents.
Exposure to the TB bacterium does not automatically result in illness. Individuals may develop either active TB disease or latent TB infection. Active TB occurs when the body is unable to eliminate the bacteria, leading to the development of symptoms and the ability to infect others. Latent TB infection, conversely, occurs when the body contains the bacteria but prevents its growth, resulting in no symptoms and no infectiousness.
Professor Hsu Li Yang, an infectious diseases expert at the National University of Singapore’s Saw Swee Hock School of Public Health, explained that “the vast majority of people exposed to TB do not develop the disease in their lifetimes. For those who do, generally this occurs months to years later.” He advises individuals experiencing a prolonged cough, particularly when accompanied by fever or other symptoms like weight loss or night sweats, to consult a doctor.
Despite the recent outbreak, Professor Hsu does not believe there is a general need to postpone travel to Malaysia at this time. However, he stressed the importance of adhering to guidance from local health authorities and Singapore’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs. He also recommends wearing masks in crowded spaces as a sensible precaution.
TB spreads through the air when an infected person coughs or sneezes, typically requiring close and prolonged contact for transmission. Those in close, daily contact with an infected individual – such as household members, colleagues, or classmates – are at the highest risk.
Certain groups are considered to be at higher risk of developing TB, including children under the age of five, the elderly, and individuals with compromised immune systems due to conditions like HIV or diabetes, or through substance abuse.
“For those with suppressed immune systems, it is good to reconsider whether travel is really necessary,” Professor Hsu cautioned.
TB is a treatable disease. Individuals identified as contacts of confirmed cases by the Communicable Diseases Agency (CDA) should undergo screening. Active TB disease is typically treated with a combination of anti-TB medications for at least six to nine months, often administered under the direct observation of a healthcare worker to ensure adherence.
Individuals diagnosed with latent TB infection may be offered preventative treatment lasting approximately four to six months. Professor Hsu encourages those who test positive for latent TB to complete the prescribed treatment to prevent the potential development of active disease in the future.
Untreated active TB disease can lead to severe lung damage, disability, and even death.
As of , Health Minister Dzulkefly Ahmad reported that 35 TB clusters remained active across Malaysia, a figure stemming from 88 clusters reported in . Selangor recorded the highest number of active clusters in , followed by Kelantan, Kedah, and Sarawak. In , clusters have been identified in Selangor, Johor, Kedah, Kelantan, Pahang, Perlis, and Sabah.
