THE nation faces an elevated risk of tuberculosis transmission during the upcoming festive period spanning Chinese New Year, Ramadan and Aidilfitri, as increased indoor social activity creates conditions conducive to the spread of the airborne disease.
Galen Centre for Health and Social Policy Chief Executive Officer Azrul Mohd Khalib said crowded and poorly ventilated environments significantly heighten the risk of infection, particularly when individuals with active tuberculosis are present.
“Any activity involving an individual with active TB who speaks, shouts, sings, coughs or sneezes in a house filled with guests, on crowded public transport, in workplaces, hostels and places of worship can spread the infection.
“A single infectious individual can unknowingly infect many others,” he said in a statement on Monday.
He noted that studies conducted in high-burden settings indicate that more than 80 per cent of transmissions occur outside the household, including in workplaces, public transport and social gatherings.
Azrul also expressed concern over congregational prayers during Ramadan, including daily prayers, Friday prayers and nightly tarawih prayers, which involve large numbers of worshippers gathering for extended periods over the course of a month.
“Members of the public should wear face masks during tarawih, including those attending religious activities in churches and temples during this period,” he said.
In addition to the seasonal increase in social interaction, he warned of the emergence and spread of multidrug-resistant tuberculosis (MDR-TB) and extensively drug-resistant tuberculosis (XDR-TB), which are more difficult to treat and associated with higher mortality rates.
Treatment for tuberculosis, he said, requires a course of antibiotics such as rifampin, ethambutol and isoniazid for between six and nine months, and is only effective if patients complete the full course of treatment.
“Drug-resistant TB is caused by incomplete doses and treatment. It is more expensive to manage, more complex for the healthcare system and dangerous to patients and the community.
“The elderly and individuals with chronic illnesses must take the threat of TB seriously, as they are more vulnerable.
“If you experience symptoms such as a prolonged cough, coughing up blood and significant weight loss over a short period, seek treatment immediately,” he said.
He urged elderly individuals and those with chronic illnesses to take the threat seriously, adding that anyone experiencing prolonged cough, coughing up blood or rapid weight loss should seek immediate medical attention. - February 16, 2026
