Mask up in crowds as TB cases rise, Health Ministry
The rise in tuberculosis (TB) cases nationwide has drawn mixed reactions, with some voluntarily resuming mask-wearing and stepping up hygiene practices.
Although the Health Ministry has not made face masks mandatory, several people told the New Straits Times they had begun taking precautionary measures after learning about the increase in cases.
Observations along Jalan Tuanku Abdul Rahman found that while some wore face masks, the majority were not.
Shahril Omar, 55, a private-sector employee, said he became aware of the spike in TB cases during a tazkirah (sermon) at his local surau this morning.
Shahril, who has had relatives and friends diagnosed with TB, said there appeared to be limited public messaging encouraging mask use.
He also expressed concern for his Form One child, who has asthma, attending school without a mask, adding that he would soon ask the child to wear one.
“The Education Ministry has not made any announcements on mask-wearing either.
“But now that cases are increasing, we should start wearing masks, including at the surau during Tarawih prayers.
“My child should wear one at school too, especially if a classmate is coughing,” he said.
Arra Ramly, 30, a part-time worker at a clothing shop, said she learned about the cases through social media and has since begun wearing a face mask and using hand sanitiser regularly.
She said the country’s experience during Covid-19 had taught her the importance of taking early precautions.
“In situations like this, it is better to take precautions before it spreads to others. Wearing a face mask is one way to be careful, just like we did during Covid-19.
“We have already gone through lockdowns. So before it reaches that stage again because of TB, it is better to wear a mask as a precaution.
“It is not just about wearing a mask. We also need to take care of our health, personal hygiene and overall well-being,” she said.
Another retail assistant, who wished to be known only as Angah, 30, said she wears a mask when her shop becomes crowded and keeps a safe distance from customers.
“I found out about TB from the news. We have to be careful because it is dangerous and involves lives. I try to avoid crowded places.
“But I work in a shop and meet customers daily, so I keep my distance. If possible, we wear masks when it is crowded,” she said.
Muniandy Subramaniam, 52, a private-sector employee, said he now wears a mask and is paying closer attention to his health amid the rise in cases.
“I wear a face mask now because we can see what is happening in the country.
“I learned about TB during my regular medical check-ups. The doctors told us about it,” he said.
The Health Ministry recorded 596 TB cases in the sixth Epidemiological Week compared with 503 the previous week, bringing the nationwide total to 3,161 cases.
The ministry also encouraged the public to wear face masks, especially in crowded or poorly ventilated areas.
It said mask-wearing was encouraged for those experiencing fever, cough, cold or sore throat.
Meanwhile, Health Minister Datuk Seri Dr Dzulkefly Ahmad said 85 per cent of TB cases involved Malaysians, while 15 per cent involved foreigners.
Category: MJN enews
