GEORGE TOWN, Malaysia (ANN/THE STAR) – As flu season sweeps across the region, health experts in Malaysia are warning of a rise in cases, particularly of influenza A, which is proving to be highly contagious and more severe than other strains.
The cold monsoon climate is proving to be the perfect breeding ground for the virus, making it more prone to spreading.
The common symptoms of influenza include high fever, body aches, cough, and fatigue, and no one is immune unless they’ve received the flu vaccine.
K Charles, 38, a civil servant, had an unsettling experience when he felt suddenly fatigued and short of breath while out for lunch.
“It felt like I got hit by a truck and couldn’t continue riding my bike,” he explained.
Charles immediately contacted his father, who rushed him to the hospital.
“I spent five days in bed with a high fever and body aches. My test came back positive for influenza A, which is highly infectious and more severe than influenza B,” he said.
After receiving antiviral treatment and IV fluids, Charles recovered fully and promptly received his flu jab to prevent future illness.
Jessie Lim, 43, a clerk, experienced a similar scare when her son, Jason Lee, 23, began feeling feverish and complained of body aches. Initially thinking it was just a typical fever, Lim took him to a clinic, where he tested positive for influenza A.
“He was prescribed antibiotics and paracetamol and told to rest and stay hydrated,” she said.
Concerned about the virus spreading, Lim ensured the family wore masks and isolated her son. A week later, both Jason and Lim’s 76-year-old mother, who had developed flu-like symptoms, received flu vaccinations for added protection.
“I was relieved to know my mother tested negative for both influenza A and B, and after a few days, everyone was feeling better,” she added.
For Imran Hilmy, a media professional, the flu season has meant taking extra precautions for his daughter, Maryam, who had previously suffered through Covid-19.
“When Maryam and her mother had Covid-19, it was incredibly tough for me. I wasn’t going to take any chances with the flu this year,” he said. “I made sure Maryam received her flu vaccine as a boost to her immune system, especially now that both flu and other respiratory illnesses are circulating more.”
General practitioner Dr BS Goh emphasised that anyone can catch the flu, regardless of age.
“The influenza viruses that circulate widely include subtypes H1N1 and H3N2, along with influenza B,” he explained. “Annual flu vaccination is the most effective way to prevent influenza and its complications.”
Dr Goh also advised holidaymakers travelling to colder regions to get vaccinated before their departure to avoid becoming ill while abroad.
Penang Health Committee Chairman Danial Gooi highlighted the importance of vaccination not just for individual protection but also for the community, particularly vulnerable groups.
“Parents should keep their children home from daycare centres, kindergartens, or schools if they are sick,” he advised.
Gooi also reported that Penang had seen an increase in influenza clusters, with 27 reported by epidemic week 41 this year, up from 21 last year.
However, he noted a slight decrease in the consultation rate for influenza-like illness (ILI) from 8.4 per cent in 2023 to 5.4 per cent this year. Despite a decline in serious cases, Gooi urged the public to remain vigilant and seek immediate medical attention if they feel unwell.
