Tuberculosis Infection

Tuberculosis Infection

The latest published statistics from the Ministry of Health shows that tuberculosis infection have reached a staggering 25,000 cases so far this year, an increase of 1,000 cases compared to last year.

The once die off disease, tuberculosis shows sign of re-surfacing, which is carried into the country by the illegal immigrants. The authority must take this very seriously.

According to data, 40% of the 25,000 infection cases are from Sabah. In view of this, the Ministry of Health must take urgent step to coordinate with various government agencies such as the Home Ministry, to secure our immigration check points to prevent further imported infection disease outbreak.

Our country’s border should be further secured from illegal immigrations. All foreign workers should undergo health screening before they are allowed to enter the country and upon entered the country, they must undergo a full health screen by our hospitals.

Tuberculosis ravaged the land during the 70s and 80s and was finally contained. However, the recent resurgence of this disease has warrant immediate alert from health institutions in the country.

Statistics show 14% of tuberculosis patients are foreigners.

Unchecked foreigners are a health hazard as they could carry the disease and spread it to locals especially in the food and beverage industry.

What we should do as a responsible citizen is to take extra precaution to seek medical treatment at nearest clinics or hospitals if you found yourself or your family members having persistent cough symptoms for two weeks or more in order to prevent the disease from spreading.

In the meantime, the government should also conduct more public awareness campaign and education to increase public awareness of the disease.

We always must remember, "prevention is better than cure", create awareness and take action to counter this disease from spreading in this country.