'Don't listen to rumours, typhoid fever still under control' - Subramaniam

The public have been urged to remain calm and not be alarmed by rumours regarding the typhoid fever outbreak in the capital city.

Health Minister Datuk Seri Dr S Subramaniam said, the outbreak is still under control and the disease can be treated easily.

“The disease is already present in Malaysia and we have the means and antibiotics to detect and treat it,” he said in a statement today.

He also urged the public to practice good personal hygiene and take the necessary safety measures especially related to food and drinks.

“Typhoid fever is spread through contaminated food and drinks by faecal matter containing the Salmonella typhi bacteria. As such, the public are urged to give priority to hygiene especially when consuming food,” he said.

Subramaniam has also urged the public to seek treatment from a nearby medical facility if they experience the symptoms related to typhoid fever to avoid complications and prevent the spread of the disease.

Meanwhile Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib Razak gave his assurance the Health Ministry will closely monitor typhoid fever outbreak in the country.

“God willing, the disease can be treated and prevented. Prioritise hygiene especially when it comes to food and drinks,” he said in a Twitter posting today.