by DayakDaily Team
KUCHING, Feb 6: The Ministry of Health says Malaysia has not recorded an increase in influenza cases and remains free of avian influenza (bird flu) among humans.
In a statement today, it said, despite a reported rise in influenza cases in foreign countries, Malaysia does not show a trend of increasing influenza cases.
It explained, based on its monitoring, the consultation rate for influenza-like illness (ILI) at Health Clinics in Epidemiological Week (ME) of 4/2025 is 4.67 per cent, a decrease of 0.14 per cent compared to 5.81 per cent in ME 3/2025.
During the same period, the admission rate for severe acute respiratory infection (SARI) cases in hospitals was 7.26 per cent, a decrease of 0.16 per cent compared to 7.52 per cent in ME 03/2025.
It also pointed out there is no new recorded cases of avian influenza among humans here.
“Based on the the World Health Organization (WHO) for the Western Pacific Region (WPRO) weekly report on Jan 31, 2025, there are no new cases of avian influenza among humans, including in Japan, while the last recorded case in the region was on Jan 1, 2025,” it stated.
The Ministry, in collaboration with the Department of Veterinary Services (DVS) and the Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security (KPKM), is actively monitoring and conducting surveillance of livestock farms, wild bird populations, and wet markets to prevent any risk of infection.
This is to ensure that Malaysia remains free from bird flu with strict biosecurity controls and preventive measures.
The Ministry also to advises the public to remain vigilant despite the stable cases of influenza here.
It urged the public to practice preventive measures such as frequently washing hands with water and soap or using hand sanitizer; practicing good cough etiquette by covering the mouth and nose when coughing or sneezing; wearing face masks, especially for individuals at high risk of infection or those with symptoms; and getting an annual influenza vaccination.
The public is also advised to seek immediate examination and treatment at government or private health facilities if they experience prolonged symptoms such as fever, cough, and cold. – DayakDaily
