Medical experts urge vigilance against tuberculosis during Ramadan, especially in crowded bazaars and gatherings, stressing early detection and good ventilation.
PETALING JAYA: As Ramadan begins, medical experts are urging the public to stay vigilant against tuberculosis (TB), particularly in crowded spaces such as bazaars, malls and family gatherings.
Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia Hospital Canselor Tuanku Muhriz consultant internal medicine and respiratory physicians, associate professors Dr Ng Boon Hau, Dr Andrea Ban Yu-Lin and Dr Nik Nuratiqah Nik Abeed said TB transmission risk increases significantly when individuals are exposed to someone with active pulmonary TB in enclosed, crowded or poorly ventilated spaces.
“Tuberculosis spreads through the air. Infected droplets can remain suspended longer in enclosed spaces with poor airflow, increasing the risk of transmission,” Ng said.
He stressed that early detection is crucial. Individuals experiencing persistent cough lasting more than two weeks should seek medical attention promptly for assessment and testing.
“Timely diagnosis and treatment help prevent further spread within the community,” he added.
“Preventive measures are particularly important in shared indoor settings such as homes and public spaces where crowds gather,” Ng added.
“Ensuring good ventilation by opening windows and doors or improving airflow can significantly reduce airborne transmission risks.
“Those with cough symptoms are encouraged to wear masks and practise proper cough etiquette.
“Individuals who feel unwell should consider avoiding crowded places or gatherings until medically assessed.
“High-risk groups, including older adults and those with multiple comorbidities or weakened immune systems, should minimise exposure to crowded indoor environments.”
Addressing concerns about immunity during fasting, Ban said Ramadan is generally safe for healthy individuals and does not inherently weaken the immune system, provided nutrition, hydration and sleep are maintained.
“Individuals with underlying medical conditions should remain compliant with their medications, ensure adequate nutritional intake during non-fasting hours and maintain healthy lifestyle habits throughout the fasting month,” she said.
She added that no single vitamin or supplement directly improves lung health.
Instead, maintaining overall wellbeing, including adequate sleep, hydration, a balanced diet and managing chronic conditions like diabetes, is key to supporting immunity and respiratory health.
“To reduce TB risk, specialists urge anyone with symptoms such as prolonged cough, fever, weight loss or night sweats to seek medical attention promptly.
“Symptomatic individuals should wear masks in crowded spaces, while healthy individuals may also consider using a mask in confined gatherings,” said Ban.
“Good ventilation is crucial – simply opening windows or using fans could help disperse airborne germs and lower the risk of transmission.
“Practising proper cough etiquette and hand hygiene further protects both individuals and the community. Outdoor or open spaces are generally safer than enclosed areas, as fresh air helps disperse infectious droplets.”
For those already on TB treatment, Nik Nuratiqah stressed that strict adherence to prescribed medication is essential, with regular daily dosing crucial to ensure a cure and prevent treatment failure or drug resistance.
“TB medications can be taken during non-fasting hours, such as at sahur or iftar,” she said.
Those affected should maintain a balanced diet, stay hydrated between iftar and sahur, and monitor for side effects such as nausea, vomiting or allergic reactions, and seek medical attention if symptoms worsen or medication is not tolerated, she added.
Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia public health specialist Prof Dr Sharifa Ezat Wan Puteh said TB primarily spreads through the air, similar to other respiratory diseases, but generally requires prolonged and close contact for transmission.
“Although TB transmission takes longer compared with flu or Covid-19, individuals at higher risk of contracting or spreading respiratory infections should avoid crowded public spaces and wear masks,” she said.
Individuals showing symptoms of TB should come forward for screening, which typically involves a clinical history, physical examination, sputum test and may include a skin test, chest X-ray and blood work.
She added that strict adherence to treatment is essential, as pulmonary TB can become dormant and reappear years later when immunity weakens.
“Ensuring good ventilation at home and workplaces, avoiding smoking, alcohol or substance abuse, and maintaining a healthy lifestyle are key preventive measures,” she said.
Ultimately, the specialists underscored the importance of self-awareness.
“Anyone with a persistent cough, especially lasting more than two weeks, should seek medical evaluation.
“Prompt diagnosis and treatment protect both the individual and the community.”
