AS of Epidemiological Week Six of 2026, Malaysia has recorded 3,161 cumulative tuberculosis (TB) cases, with 596 new infections reported in the most recent week. These arrangements show that anchoring TB management in primary care strengthens surveillance and reduces treatment interruption without overburdening hospitals. When primary care functions effectively, pressure on inpatient facilities decreases and resources are used more efficiently. The question is whether primary care structures are sufficiently integrated to deploy those tools at the earliest opportunity. In that configuration, hospitals serve their proper purpose as the last line of defence, supported by a vigilant and well-organised primary care front line.

Source: The Edge Markets February 26, 2026 06:59 UTC