Health Minister Datuk Seri Dr Dzulkefly Ahmad confirmed that a tuberculosis (TB) cluster has been detected in Kota Tinggi, Johor. A total of 33 positive cases were identified following the screening of 804 close contacts from January 25 until yesterday.
Six of these cases involve students, including two females, who were confirmed positive through close contact screening. With the outbreak occurring within the district and affecting students, concerns were raised regarding whether schools would face temporary closure to prevent further spread.
For illustration purposes only
No school closures for now
Johor Education and Information Committee Chairman Aznan Tamin stated that the state government has taken note of the outbreak.
“All students involved have been ordered to undergo quarantine and receive appropriate treatment. They are currently under close monitoring by the Ministry of Health (MOH) in accordance with established health procedures,” he said.
Aznan added that the District Health Office has visited the affected schools to hold briefing sessions with management, teachers, and parents regarding prevention and control measures. He highlighted that the Johor government has confirmed there is no order to close schools following the spread of the infection among the six students.
All schools, however, must comply with MOH guidelines, including hygiene protocols, student health monitoring, and recommended follow-up actions. According to Berita RTM, Aznan reaffirmed the state government’s commitment to ensuring the safety and welfare of students and staff through continued cooperation with the MOH.
Earlier, Dr Dzulkefly also confirmed that while one death was reported within the cluster, it was not caused by the tuberculosis infection.
The public is advised to maintain personal hygiene and wear face masks where necessary.
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