There’s been an increase in influenza cases in Malaysia recently, with messages circulating on social media warning others to stay at home and avoid open areas.
The Health Ministry however set the record straight- that despite the slight increase in cases, the situation is still very much under control.
In their statement issued last Saturday (4 Jan), the ministry announced that there has been a slight increase in influenza like-illness (ILI) and severe acute respiratory infections (SARI) cases since mid-December 2019. However, the recorded increases are still within a normal range and similar to those of previous years.
Meanwhile, studies by the Sungai Buloh National Public Health Laboratory and the Medical Research Institute (IMR) on influenza viruses detected from their surgeries that the cases did not show any sign of a mutation leading to the emergence of a new influenza virus (novel virus).
Photo: The Ministry of Health Malaysia
In light of the rising concerns, the Health Ministry also laid out important steps in dealing with patients, especially among children.
Firstly, if there is a need for medication, the appropriate dose of paracetamol should be given in addition to tepid sponging using a wet towel of body parts such as the head, legs and body.
The use of Non-Steroidal Anti-inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDS) to reduce fever should also be avoided as there is clinical evidence showing that its use can increase the risk of complications of influenza infections such as brain inflammation in children.
If the fever persists and there are symptoms of influenza such as cold or flu, sore throat, cough and other symptoms such as headache, muscle aches, joint pain and fatigue, patents are advised to arrange a visit with the doctor immediately
The Health Ministry also urged the public to take precautionary measures to curb the spread of the influenza virus. On top of maintaining a high level of personal hygiene, the general public and high-risk groups in particular are encouraged to obtain seasonal influenza vaccine offers, which is available at most private health facilities throughout the country.
While there have been rumours that Malaysia does not administer enough vaccine for the number of patients affected by the virus, the Health Ministry assured that all public and private facilities under the Ministry of Health have enough stock of “Tamifu” an antiviral medication used to treat and prevent influenza.
It is also important to note that influenza is unlike the common flu as it a contagious respiratory illness caused by influenza viruses that infect the nose, throat, and sometimes the lungs.
As such, for those with symptoms of influenza infection it is advisable to stay at home and avoid going to crowded places. If there’s a need to go to public places, they are advised to wear face masks to prevent the spread of infections through respiratory drops.
It should also be habit of not just those who are affected but for everyone to cover their nose and mouth with a tissue, towel or handkerchief when coughing or sneezing. The used tissue should be immediately thrown into the trash.
Sharing of personal equipment such as towels, handkerchiefs with other individuals should also be avoided while those with severe symptoms such as fever and cough / sore throat should seek out immediate consultation with the doctor for further treatment.
We hope everyone is aware and stay vigilant of the rise of influenza cases and remember that prevention is better than cure!
By: Siti Farhana Sheikh Yahya
