TUMPAT, Kelantan – The Malaysian Health Ministry (MOH) has recorded 10,272 cases of waterborne diseases at temporary relief centres (PPS) in six flood-affected states as of Dec 6. These states include Kelantan, Terengganu, Kedah, Negeri Sembilan, Pahang, and Perak.
Health Minister Dzulkefly Ahmad reported that the cases include 6,730 instances of acute respiratory infections and 3,021 skin infections. Additionally, 298 cases of acute gastroenteritis, 190 of conjunctivitis, 20 of chickenpox, and 13 of hand, foot, and mouth disease were recorded. Dr. Dzulkefly emphasized that the reported infectious disease cases remain sporadic and under control.
“The public must remain attentive to directives from authorities and take personal health precautions to prevent the spread of infectious diseases, accidents, and injuries,” he said. He urged individuals to seek immediate treatment from medical teams at the PPS or nearby healthcare facilities and avoid delaying medical attention.
The minister also highlighted that 121 healthcare facilities have been impacted by the floods. These include 77 in Kelantan, 30 in Terengganu, nine in Kedah, two each in Negeri Sembilan and Pahang, and one in Perak.
The affected facilities comprise 56 rural clinics, 34 health clinics, 19 dental clinics, five district health offices, six hospitals, and one at an international entry point.
“Currently, 87 healthcare facilities are operational, while 31 have moved their services to alternative facilities. Only three facilities are non-operational as they are still undergoing cleaning. The public can still access healthcare services at alternative locations,” Dr. Dzulkefly assured.
He concluded by affirming the Health Ministry’s commitment to implementing preventive and control measures to ensure uninterrupted and efficient healthcare services during the ongoing crisis.