PETALING JAYA: As influenza cases surge across the country, schools and kindergartens have become hotspots for infection, prompting renewed calls for students to take extra precautions.
Health experts are advising schools to tighten safety measures, with children identified as the most vulnerable group amid the growing number of outbreaks.
Public health specialist Prof Dr Sharifa Ezat Wan Puteh urged that affected schools be temporarily closed and sanitised.
“Children showing influenza-like illness (ILI) symptoms should remain at home, while those with severe acute respiratory illness (SARI) must seek hospital treatment,” she said.
She also encouraged annual influenza vaccination, noting that flu viruses evolve each year.
“The flu jab is suitable for anyone aged six months and above,” added Dr Sharifa Ezat, who is also dean of the School of Liberal Studies at Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia.
The Health Ministry recently reported a sharp increase in ILI clusters — 97 nationwide in the latest epidemiological week, compared to 14 the week before, with most outbreaks detected in schools and kindergartens across Selangor, Kuala Lumpur and Penang.
The ministry reminded the public that while influenza often resolves without major treatment, early intervention is vital to prevent serious complications, especially among children and high-risk groups.
It also reiterated standard preventive measures — covering coughs and sneezes, practising good hand hygiene, avoiding crowds when unwell, and wearing masks if symptomatic.
Health Minister Datuk Seri Dr Dzulkefly Ahmad said discussions will be held with the Education Ministry to determine additional steps to curb the spread in schools. He assured the public that the situation remains under control despite the rising number of clusters.
Prof Sharifa Ezat highlighted that high-risk groups include the elderly, individuals with chronic illnesses, cancer patients, and pregnant women. She also advised teachers, healthcare workers, and others in high-contact professions to wear masks for self-protection.
Meanwhile, Malaysian Medical Association (MMA) president Datuk Dr Thirunavukarasu Rajoo urged the public to remain vigilant.
“Influenza A and B cases typically rise at this time of year, but good hygiene remains our best defence — frequent handwashing, covering coughs, and masking up in crowded areas,” he said.
He advised anyone experiencing persistent fever, severe cough, chest pain, or breathing difficulty to seek immediate medical attention if symptoms persist beyond a few days.
Private hospitals say they are managing the higher demand for flu shots.
“We still have sufficient vaccine supply despite the surge in cases,” said Association of Private Hospitals Malaysia president Dr Kuljit Singh, noting that demand usually spikes during flu season.
Dr Raj Kumar Maharajah, former president of the Medical Practitioners Coalition Association of Malaysia, confirmed vaccine stock remains adequate nationwide.
“Many people are coming forward for flu vaccinations amid the outbreak,” he said.
