The Malaysia Health Minister, Dr Zaliha Mustafa, has dismissed claims of a tuberculosis (TB) outbreak in the Klang Valley, assuring the public that the situation is under control. She emphasized that there is no epidemic or outbreak, as TB cases are always present and constantly monitored in the area.
Responding to viral reports of more than 100 active TB cases in Cheras, Kuala Lumpur, Dr Zaliha urged the public to refrain from spreading unverified information that could cause panic. She stated that the health department is investigating the issue and called for cooperation in sharing accurate updates to prevent misinformation.
To stay informed about the TB situation, Dr Zaliha encouraged the use of the MySejahtera app. Through this platform, individuals can access real-time data on the total number of cases in different areas. As of now, there have been 11 reported TB cases in Cheras within the past 60 days, according to the MySejahtera tracker on infectious diseases.
Highlighting the government’s proactive approach, Dr Zaliha announced the launch of the Malaysian health action plan for 2022-2026. This initiative aligns with the ongoing World Antimicrobial Resistance (AMR) Awareness Week and incorporates the One Health approach to address the issue comprehensively.
The One Health initiative brings together various disciplines to find solutions that benefit human health, animal welfare, plant health, and the environment. Dr Zaliha stressed that AMR is a complex challenge that affects multiple sectors and poses threats to food security, economic development, and our ability to combat pandemics. Globally, AMR has already claimed over 1.2 million lives, while Malaysia has recorded 8,700 related deaths since data collection began.
Dr Zaliha Mustafa assures the public that there is no TB outbreak in the Klang Valley. She urges individuals displaying TB symptoms to seek treatment promptly. By relying on accurate information provided through the MySejahtera app, everyone can stay informed about the current situation. The launch of the Malaysian health action plan demonstrates the government’s commitment to addressing health challenges comprehensively, with a focus on AMR and the One Health approach.
Remember to follow trustworthy sources such as our site (PPHM) or official health site like Kementerian Kesihatan Malaysia (KKM) for updates and avoid spreading unverified information that may cause unnecessary concern.
