KOTA KINABALU: A total of 3,161 tuberculosis (TB) cases were recorded nationwide as of the sixth Epidemiological Week (ME-6/2026), including 596 new cases, the Health Ministry said on Saturday.
Sabah recorded the highest number with 755 cases, accounting for 23.88 per cent of total infections.
Selangor followed with 596 cases and Sarawak with 332, placing them among the top three states.
Johor recorded 280 cases, the Federal Territories of Kuala Lumpur and Putrajaya 244, Kedah 181, Penang 172 and Perak 154.
Kelantan registered 121 cases, Pahang 103, Terengganu 74, Negeri Sembilan 62, Melaka 48, Perlis 21 and Labuan 18.
The Ministry reminded the public that TB is an airborne disease transmitted through droplets when a person with active pulmonary TB coughs, talks or sneezes, but it does not spread as quickly as influenza or Covid-19 and usually requires prolonged or repeated exposure in enclosed and poorly ventilated spaces.
It stressed that Ramadan is not the cause of TB transmission, although increased social activities may heighten exposure risks if precautions are neglected, and urged the public to practise proper cough etiquette, ensure good ventilation and seek medical checks for coughs lasting more than two weeks to enable early detection and prevent further spread.
_(1)_(1).%5B1%5D.png)
