Kelantan reports 35 tuberculosis deaths in 7 months amid rising cases in Kota Bharu

Kelantan reports 35 tuberculosis deaths in 7 months amid rising cases in Kota Bharu

KOTA BHARU, Sept 9 — Kelantan recorded 35 tuberculosis (TB) deaths between January and July this year.

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KOTA BHARU, Sept 9 — Kelantan recorded 35 tuberculosis (TB) deaths between January and July this year.

According to State Health director Datuk Dr Zaini Hussin, a total of 636 TB cases were reported during the same period, with Kota Bharu registering the highest number at 178, followed by Pasir Mas (80) and Tumpat (75).

“As of July, 14 TB clusters were detected across seven districts, with Kota Bharu topping the list. Most clusters occurred within households, averaging two cases among close contacts of the index patient,” he said in a statement yesterday.

He noted that high-risk groups in Kelantan are mainly elderly individuals aged 65 and above, predominantly Malay, and those with co-morbidities such as diabetes and smoking habits.

“To curb transmission, the department has rolled out several initiatives, including awareness campaigns, early screening of individuals with persistent cough, and testing of high-risk groups using advanced diagnostic methods.

“We have also strengthened treatment monitoring to ensure patient compliance, while boosting the capacity of healthcare personnel to manage TB effectively,” Dr Zaini said.

He added that Kelantan recorded 1,049 TB cases throughout 2024, with 99 deaths. — Bernama

Ambulances are parked outside a hospital in Kuala Lumpur on January 22, 2025. — Picture by Raymond Manuel

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