Malaysia Faces 10,272 Waterborne Disease Cases in Flood-Hit Regions

Widespread Health Impact Emerges from Devastating Floods

In the aftermath of severe flooding across six Malaysian states, the Health Ministry has documented a significant surge in waterborne diseases, revealing the substantial health challenges facing affected communities. According to a report by THE STAR/ASIA NEWS NETWORK, the ministry has recorded 10,272 disease cases in temporary relief centers located in Kelantan, Terengganu, Kedah, Negeri Sembilan, Pahang, and Perak as of December 6.

Breakdown of Infectious Disease Cases

Health Minister Dr. Dzulkefly Ahmad provided a detailed breakdown of the detected cases, which include:

• 6,730 acute respiratory infections
• 3,021 skin infections
• 298 cases of acute gastroenteritis
• 190 cases of conjunctivitis
• 20 cases of chickenpox
• 13 cases of hand, foot, and mouth disease

Flood Situation and Healthcare Infrastructure

The floods, triggered by torrential rain in the last week of November, have impacted more than 150,000 people across 10 states, with northeastern Kelantan experiencing the most severe damage. The flooding has significantly disrupted healthcare infrastructure, affecting 121 healthcare facilities, including:

• 56 rural clinics
• 34 health clinics
• 19 dental clinics
• Five district health offices
• Six hospitals
• One international entry point

Ministry’s Response and Public Health Guidance

Dr. Dzulkefly emphasized the importance of public vigilance during this challenging period. “The public must remain attentive to directives from the authorities and take personal health precautions to prevent the spread of infectious diseases, accidents and injuries,” he stated during a press conference at Maktab Rendah Sains Mara in Tumpat.

The minister further urged individuals to seek immediate medical treatment at relief centers or nearby healthcare facilities. “Individuals are also urged to seek immediate treatment from medical teams at the PPS or the nearest healthcare facilities and avoid delaying treatment,” he added.

Healthcare Facility Status

Despite the extensive damage, the Health Ministry has managed to maintain healthcare services. Of the 121 affected facilities:

• 87 remain operational
• 31 have relocated services to alternative facilities
• Only three facilities are temporarily non-operational for cleaning

“Currently, 87 healthcare facilities are operational, while 31 have moved their services to alternative facilities,” Dr. Dzulkefly confirmed. “Only three facilities are non-operational, as they are still being cleaned. The public can still access healthcare services at these facilities, including alternative facilities, as usual.”

The Health Ministry has committed to ensuring “appropriate preventive and control measures are in place to provide uninterrupted and efficient healthcare services” during this challenging period.