Tawau is one of the most critical areas suffering from tuberculosis (TB) in Sabah with 11 deaths due to the disease last year.

Sabah Anti Tuberculosis Association (Sabata) Tawau branch advisor Peter Lu Yit Phin believes the spread of the TB bacteria will continue to rise in the next decade if the relevant authorities do not take effective precautionary measures.

Peter said Sabata Tawau is also participating in various activities organized by the TB center under the Health Ministry such as public health check for TB at hotspots.

He said this during a courtesy call on Tawau Municipal Council (TMC) president Alijus Sipil at his office here yesterday in conjunction with TB month.

“We provide funds for TB patients (for transportation and meal), so that they are able to go for treatment at Tawau hospital until they recover.

“In the meantime, we also found lots of families in rural areas are suffering from TB as the germs are air borne,” said Peter.

Therefore, he urged those suffering from persistent cough that exceeds three weeks to see a doctor or go to the TB center in Tawau hospital for inspection.

Peter also hoped that TMC could continue to support and jointly organise TB awareness programs with Sabata Tawau from time to time.

Meanwhile, Alijus expressed his appreciation for the efforts of Sabata Tawau and would willingly support and participate in their activities. He said the council will also facilitate Sabata Tawau if they needed use the resources of the council such as the community hall for their TB awareness program.

Source:
courtesy of THE BORNEO POST

by Christy Chok

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