PETALING JAYA: Malaysia does not have a trend of increasing influenza cases, and has not recorded any cases of avian influenza in humans, the Health Ministry says.
It noted that Malaysia hospital admissions for severe acute respiratory infection have decreased by 0.16%, from 7.52% in Epidemiological Week 3 (EW3/2025) to 7.26% in EW4.
The consultation rate for influenza-like illnesses in public health clinics has also decreased by 1.14%, from 5.81% in EW3 to 4.67% in EW4.
Despite foreign media reporting a sudden increase in influenza cases, the ministry said that the Western Pacific Region (WPRO) under the World Health Organization (WHO) has reported a decreasing number of positive influenza cases.
The region includes Japan and China.
“Based on a report by the World Health Organization (WHO) for the Western Pacific Region (WPRO), the positive results for influenza test samples was 26.19% in EW1 of 2025 and 21.97% in EW 4/2025, a decrease of 4%,” it said in a statement on Thursday (Feb 6).
The ministry added that WHO’s weekly report on the region on Jan 31 stated that there were no new cases of avian influenza in humans, including in Japan, with the last recorded case in the region on Jan 1.
For avian influenza, the ministry is actively monitoring farms, wild bird populations, and wet markets to prevent any risk of infection, it added.
“This is to ensure that Malaysia remains free from avian influenza with strict biosecurity control and preventive measures,” it said.
The public is advised to take preventive measures such as frequent hand washing with water and soap or using hand sanitiser, covering their mouth and nose when coughing or sneezing, and wearing a face mask for high-risk individuals and those with symptoms.
Annual influenza vaccinations are also recommended by the ministry.
“Immediately seek examination and treatment at government or private health facilities if they experience symptoms such as prolonged fever, cough, and flu,” it said.
