The health ministry encourages people to get an annual influenza vaccination jab to boost protection. (AFP pic)
PETALING JAYA: The health ministry has dismissed claims of an upward trend in influenza cases, including avian influenza, in Malaysia.
The ministry said its data showed the consultation rate for influenza-like illness at government clinics stood at 4.67% in the fourth epidemiological week for the year, reflecting a 0.14% decrease from the previous week.
“Similarly, hospital admissions for severe acute respiratory infections declined to 7.26%, down 0.16% from 7.52% in the third epidemiological week of 2025,” it said in a statement.
It also said data from the World Health Organization for the Western Pacific region (WPRO) showed that the rate of positive cases based on influenza samples tested stood at 21.97% for the fourth epidemiological week of 2025, indicating a 4% decline from the first week.
“The WHO, in a report for WPRO on Jan 31, confirmed that no new human cases of bird flu were detected in the region, including Japan, with the last recorded case dating back to Jan 1,” it said.
Earlier, Gerakan president Dominic Lau called on the ministry to ensure an adequate supply of influenza vaccines.
He said the media had been reporting that the number of influenza cases had doubled during the Chinese New Year season, leading to a surge in demand for the vaccinations.
“The high demand has resulted in some clinics and hospitals arbitrarily raising prices, with the cost per dose skyrocketing to as high as RM150.”
The health ministry said it is working with the department of veterinary services as well as the agriculture and food security ministry in actively monitoring poultry farms, wild bird populations, and wet markets to mitigate any risk of infection.
“Strict biosecurity controls and preventive measures remain in place to ensure Malaysia remains free from avian influenza,” the ministry said.
It urged the public to prioritise preventive measures such as frequent handwashing, practising proper cough etiquette, wearing face masks for high-risk individuals or those with symptoms, and getting an annual influenza vaccination jab to boost protection.
“Individuals experiencing prolonged fever, cough or flu symptoms are encouraged to seek immediate medical attention at government or private healthcare facilities.”
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