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The community has been advised to stay alert and seek early testing.
Health authorities in Johor are intensifying screening and contact tracing after a tuberculosis cluster was identified in Kota Tinggi, following the detection of multiple linked cases within one community.
Patients are receiving treatment, while residents and employers have been encouraged to stay alert to symptoms and seek early screening.
Johor’s State Health Department (JKNJ) has confirmed the localised tuberculosis (TB) cluster in Kota Tinggi.
The district health office first identified the outbreak on 25 January 2026. Since then, active case finding and contact tracing measures have screened 804 close contacts, uncovering 33 confirmed cases as of 4 February.
All affected individuals have begun treatment and are being closely monitored at nearby health facilities, the department said. One death was reported among the patients, though authorities clarified that it was not caused by TB.
Tuberculosis is an airborne infectious disease caused by mycobacterium tuberculosis. It spreads through prolonged close contact, particularly in enclosed or poorly ventilated spaces. Common symptoms include a persistent cough, unexplained weight loss, reduced appetite, night sweats, and in more serious cases, coughing up blood.
While the illness can sound alarming, TB is both preventable and treatable. With consistent medication over at least six months, patients can make a full recovery and reduce the risk of transmission to others.
JKNJ has advised residents in affected and surrounding areas — especially those experiencing prolonged cough symptoms or with known exposure to TB patients — are advised to undergo screening at the nearest health facility.
For employers and organisations operating in the district, the situation serves as a reminder to reinforce basic workplace health practices, such as encouraging unwell employees to seek medical care early, supporting flexible sick leave, and maintaining good ventilation in shared spaces.
Lead image / JKNJ Facebook
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