This advice was in response to the news that went viral on social media pertaining to the outbreak of tuberculosis (TB) disease in the area.
In a press statement issued yesterday, the department said it was aware of the social media posting and had taken immediate follow-up actions.
“We’re aware of the social media posting on TB outbreak in the Emart Matang area and advised whoever who wishes to go there to wear a face mask,” it said in the statement.
The department has also directed all staff members of Emart Matang to go for immediate check-up at the Petra Jaya Health Clinic since last Monday until today.
In line with this, the department confirmed two TB cases were recorded in the area.
The first case was detected on Jan 10 while the second was on Feb 4. The two cases were detected following chest x-ray performed on two patients.
They were immediately given medical treatment of TB.
Their sputum smear test showed negative results.
According to the statement, the Tuberculosis Disease Control Unit of the Kuching Division Health Office had identified 158 family members, social contacts and colleagues of the duo to undergo for TB test.
TB is a disease caused by bacteria called Mycobacterium tuberculosis. The bacteria usually attack the lungs, but they can also damage other parts of the body.
TB spreads through the air when a person with TB of the lungs or throat coughs, sneezes, or talks.
