PETALING JAYA: There is no rising trend of influenza cases in Malaysia and no reported cases of avian influenza in humans either, says the Health Ministry.
Despite foreign media reports of a sudden increase in influenza cases, the ministry cited data from the World Health Organization (WHO) for the Western Pacific Region, which indicates a declining trend.
“The positive rate for tested influenza samples was 26.19% in Epidemiological Week 1 of 2025 (EW 1/2025) and dropped to 21.97% in EW 4/2025, reflecting a 4% decrease,” the ministry said in a statement yesterday.
The Western Pacific Region, one of WHO’s six regions, consists of 37 member countries and territories, including Japan and China.
In Malaysia, hospital admissions for severe acute respiratory infection have decreased by 0.16%, from 7.52% in EW 3 to 7.26% in EW 4.
Similarly, consultations for influenza-like illnesses at public health clinics declined from 5.81% in EW 3 to 4.67% in EW 4.
Regarding avian influenza, the ministry referenced WHO’s weekly report from Jan 31, confirming no new human cases in the region, including Japan.
The last recorded case was on Jan 1.
To prevent potential infections, the ministry is actively monitoring farms, wild bird populations and wet markets – while also enforcing strict biosecurity and preventive measures.
The public is advised to follow preventive measures such as frequent handwashing with soap and water or hand sanitiser, covering the mouth and nose when coughing or sneezing, and wearing face masks for high-risk individuals and those with symptoms.
The ministry also recommends annual influenza vaccinations and urges individuals to seek medical attention at government or private health facilities if they experience prolonged fever, cough or flu-like symptoms.
