PETALING JAYA: Changing weather conditions, increased time spent indoors and waning herd immunity can influence the spread of respiratory infections such as influenza and Covid-19, say health experts.
While weather may play a role in transmission, other factors, including social interactions, crowded environments and international travel, also contribute to the circulation of respiratory viruses.
Universiti Putra Malaysia consultant clinical microbiologist Prof Dr Zamberi Sekawi said while climate may play a role, it is certainly not the only factor.
“Unlike temperate countries, where influenza typically peaks during winter, influenza circulates throughout the year in tropical countries such as Malaysia,” he said, adding that changes in rainfall, temperature and humidity could influence transmission patterns, while rainy weather might encourage people to spend more time indoors.
This could increase exposure to respiratory viruses, particularly in crowded and poorly-ventilated environments.
“Other important factors include increased social interactions, school and workplace transmission, international travel, waning immunity and the continued evolution of circulating viruses,” he said.
Dr Zamberi cautioned against attributing respiratory infections solely to weather, noting that not everyone with fever, cough or sore throat necessarily had influenza or Covid-19 as other respiratory viruses could cause similar symptoms.
On preventive measures, he said vaccination remained one of the most effective ways to reduce serious illness, hospitalisation and complications.
“I strongly encourage annual influenza vaccination, particularly among older adults, young children, pregnant women, and those with chronic medical conditions.
“Eligible individuals should also ensure their Covid-19 vaccination is up to date according to current recommendations,” he said.
Dr Zamberi noted that those who developed respiratory symptoms should stay home when they’re unwell, wear a mask if they needed to be around others, practise good hand hygiene and avoid close contact with vulnerable family members.
“Good indoor ventilation is also important. Individuals at higher risk of severe illness should seek medical attention early if they develop influenza-like symptoms.
“Antiviral treatments are available for both influenza and Covid-19, and are most beneficial when started promptly in eligible patients,” he said.
Public health medicine specialist Datuk Dr Zainal Ariffin Omar said environmental changes, including haze and sudden shifts between hot and cool, rainy weather, could irritate the respiratory tract and aggravate existing conditions such as asthma and sinus problems.
He said social settings remained an important factor in the spread of respiratory viruses, with crowded indoor environments providing opportunities for transmission.
Dr Zainal similarly advised those experiencing fever, cough, sore throat or body aches to stay home and recommended wearing well-fitted masks in crowded indoor spaces, on public transport or when caring for someone who is unwell.
“You should also wash hands frequently with soap and water or use alcohol-based sanitiser and open windows to increase natural ventilation to disperse viral particles,” he said.
