The Ministry of Health stated that the 9 leprosy cases in Negeri Sembilan have been brought under control, and patients do not need isolation after receiving effective treatment.
The ministry issued a statement today (21st), noting that as of the 19th of this month, the Negeri Sembilan Health Department has screened 368 out of 460 villagers to further investigate the leprosy cases in the Chergun and Guntur villages in Kuala Pilah.
“An 18-year-old patient from the Chergun village unfortunately passed away on the 17th of this month. Before this, the patient was admitted to the Tuanku Ampuan Najihah Hospital (HTAN), experiencing symptoms of fever, abdominal pain, and vomiting, and was treated by medical specialists with consultations from gastroenterology, hepatology, and dermatology departments.”
“The family took the patient home on the 16th, and he unfortunately passed away the next day.”
The Ministry of Health pointed out that contact tracing for the patients and preventive measures against infection are still ongoing. Those who show suspected leprosy symptoms are urged to seek treatment at a nearby medical center.
“The Ministry assures that the situation in Kuala Pilah is under control and that patients do not need isolation due to effective treatment.”
“In light of this, the Ministry of Health calls on the public to cooperate with the health teams conducting examinations, and the ministry is committed to continuing to protect the health and wellness of the people.”
According to the Ministry of Health's data, the country reported 292 leprosy cases in 2024, an increase of 36 cases or 14% compared to 256 cases in 2023.
Of these 292 cases, 192 or 66% were newly reported local cases.
Despite this, they noted the positive effect of proactive measures allowing timely detection and immediate treatment, reducing and preventing complications and permanent disabilities associated with the disease.
They also emphasized the need to provide mental and positive environmental support to patients and individuals affected by leprosy to ensure their quality of life is not impacted. Thus, the Ministry believes it is necessary to eliminate stigma and discrimination to realize the goal of zero new cases.
Negeri Sembilan Chief Minister Dato' Seri Aminuddin had stated on Wednesday (19th) that to ensure the situation is under control, the state government had isolated the two aforementioned villages and closed the nearby Jeram Tengkek Eco Park.