TB outbreak in Malaysia: Public urged to take extra health precautions in crowded places and at Ramadan gatherings

• 3,161 TB cases recorded nationwide, with Sabah reporting the highest number.
  
• Transmission risk increases in crowded, poorly ventilated spaces.
  
• Prevention is key: Practise cough etiquette, ensure good ventilation, wear a mask if symptomatic, and seek medical care for a prolonged cough.

The month of Ramadan is eagerly awaited and widely celebrated, marked by activities such as visiting Ramadan bazaars and breaking fast with family and friends. Amid these gatherings, the public in Malaysia is advised to consistently practise self-health measures, particularly those related to respiratory health.

Tuberculosis (TB) is an airborne infectious disease that spreads when a person with active pulmonary TB coughs, talks, or sneezes. However, the Ministry of Health (Kementerian Kesihatan Malaysia, or KKM) has clarified that TB does not typically spread as quickly as influenza or COVID-19, as infection usually requires prolonged and repeated exposure.

As of epidemiological week 6 of 2026 (ME-6/2026), a total of 596 new TB cases have been registered, bringing the cumulative number of cases nationwide to 3,161.

Sabah records the highest number of cases

A breakdown by state shows that Sabah recorded the highest number of infections at 755 cases, accounting for 23.88% of the national total, with an incidence rate (IR) of 20.08 per 100,000 population.

Selangor followed with 596 cases (18.85%, IR 8.05), while Sarawak reported 332 cases (10.50%, IR 13.12). Johor recorded 280 cases (8.86%, IR 6.66).

The Federal Territories of Kuala Lumpur and Putrajaya together registered 244 cases (7.72%, IR 11.12).

Other states also report notable figures

Several other states recorded lower but still significant numbers of infections:

• Kedah logged 181 cases (5.73%, IR 8.12), Pulau Pinang 172 cases (5.44%, IR 9.54), and Perak 154 cases (4.87%, IR 5.98).
• Kelantan reported 121 cases (3.83%, IR 6.34), followed by Pahang with 103 cases (3.26%, IR 6.14) and Terengganu with 74 cases (2.34%, IR 5.93).
• Negeri Sembilan recorded 62 cases (1.96%, IR 4.98), Melaka 48 cases (1.52%, IR 4.56), and Perlis 21 cases (0.66%, IR 7.05).
• The Federal Territory of Labuan reported 18 cases (0.57%), but had a relatively high incidence rate of 17.84 per 100,000 population.
  

Risk increases in crowded and enclosed settings

KKM reminded that the risk of TB transmission increases when individuals spend long periods in closed, crowded, and poorly ventilated spaces, particularly if there are people with active TB who have not received treatment. The actual risk depends on several factors, including duration of exposure, ventilation conditions, and the health status of those present.

Importantly, KKM stressed that Ramadan itself is not the cause of TB transmission. However, increased social interaction during the month may raise the likelihood of exposure within the community.

Recommended prevention and control measures

To reduce risk during the festive period, the public is encouraged to adopt the following measures:

• Practise proper coughing and sneezing etiquette
• Ensure good ventilation in enclosed spaces
• Wear a face mask if symptomatic or when in crowded places
• Seek medical attention if experiencing a cough lasting longer than two weeks or other related symptoms

Such community awareness is crucial for early detection, effective treatment, and prevention of further transmission.

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