As of Saturday (Feb 7), Malaysia has identified 10 new tuberculosis clusters in seven states, with Johor reporting the highest number of cases at 37, announced Malaysian Health Minister Dzulkefly Ahmad.

Responding to a query from Member of Parliament Ahmad Yunus Hairi (Kuala Langat), who sought updates on the status of tuberculosis clusters by state, the number of active cases under observation, and the preventive measures in place, Dr. Zulkefly mentioned that the clusters involved eight adults and 29 children. Out of these cases, 36 were identified through active testing and contact tracing conducted by health ministry officials.

Among the remaining nine clusters, Selangor has 10 cases spread across four clusters, while Kedah, Kelantan, Pahang, Perlis, and Selangor each have one cluster. A total of 25 cases were found in these nine clusters.

Dr. Zulkefly assured that all identified cases have started treatment and are under daily monitoring.

According to the World Health Organization, tuberculosis is caused by mycobacterium tuberculosis, a type of bacteria that primarily affects the lungs. The disease spreads through the air when individuals with tuberculosis cough, sneeze, or spit.

Tuberculosis is both preventable and treatable. Common symptoms include persistent cough, chest pain, weakness, fatigue, weight loss, fever, and night sweats.