Department blames typhoid cases on poor hygiene

Star: KUALA KRAI: Kelantan has a high incidence of typhoid because of lack of hygiene, state Health Department director Datuk Dr Ahmad Razin Ahmad Mahir said.
He said it had become a culture in the state for cleanliness to be neglected, especially when preparing food, and this led to typhoid outbreaks.
He said there was a typhoid outbreak every year.
Dr Ahmad Razin was referring to the recent deaths of two Kuala Krai Mara Junior Science College (MRSM) students, which sparked a typhoid outbreak scare.
Siti Nazirah Said died of dengue fever while Amni Izzati Ghani was suspected to have died from pneumonia.
Dr Ahmad Razin said typhoid could be contained through better cleanliness and personal hygiene.
“Most importantly, food handlers must conform to strict hygienic practices, such as washing their hands constantly,” he said.
In another development, Kuala Krai MRSM principal Shamsudin Hussin said two students who were earlier admitted to hospital for observation after they developed fever, were recovering.
He said the 500 students at the college were sent home for an extended break till March 18. However, this was not due to the deaths of the two students.
Shamsudin said parents should not worry as the college had taken steps to ensure a high level of cleanliness.