KUALA LUMPUR: Influenza cases in Malaysia have continued to decline, with the Health Ministry reporting fewer flu-like and severe respiratory infections nationwide between Oct 19 and 25.
The ministry said surveillance data from the Influenza-Like Illness (ILI) and Severe Acute Respiratory Infection (Sari) monitoring systems showed a downward trend during the 43rd epidemiological week of 2025.
“During the period, the rate of ILI consultations dropped from 9.68 per cent to 8.18 per cent, while hospital admissions for Sari cases decreased slightly from 10.56 per cent to 10.45 per cent.
“Genome sequencing to date has not detected any new influenza virus mutations,” it said in a statement today.
The ministry added that the National Crisis Preparedness and Response Centre (CPRC) recorded 30 confirmed clusters of acute respiratory infections caused by influenza during the same week — an 86 per cent decrease compared with the previous week.
“Schools remained the main contributors, with 15 clusters recorded, while kindergartens reported four.
“Seven clusters occurred in private homes, one in a nursery, and two in other premises.”
No clusters were detected in workplaces or other educational institutions.
The ministry said that while most influenza patients recovered fully within a few days to a week, the infection could cause serious illness or complications among high-risk groups such as children, the elderly and those with chronic health conditions.
Based on national surveillance data, more than 70 per cent of ILI and Sari cases were recorded among children.
“To protect vulnerable groups and curb the spread of influenza, the public is advised to avoid visiting crowded places when symptomatic, to wear face masks when coughing or sneezing, to practise regular handwashing and proper cough etiquette, and to receive the annual influenza vaccination,” it said.
The ministry also urged high-risk individuals to seek early treatment at nearby public or private health facilities if symptoms persist.
Parents and guardians are advised to take their children for immediate medical assessment if they exhibit symptoms such as lethargy, dehydration, rapid or laboured breathing, seizures, bluish lips or fingers, or a prolonged fever.
The ministry said it would continue to monitor the influenza situation closely and ensure that prevention, control, and preparedness measures remained at optimal levels.
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