Influenza Infection Rate Declines In ME43/2025 

PUTRAJAYA, Nov 1 (Bernama) -- The rate of influenza infection in the country has shown a declining trend in Epidemiological Week (ME) 43 of this year, according to the Ministry of Health (MOH).  

In a statement today, MOH said monitoring through the consultation rate for Influenza-Like Illnesses (ILI) and hospital admission rate for Severe Acute Respiratory Infection (SARI) cases indicated that both recorded decreases compared with the previous week.  

“The ILI consultation rate dropped from 9.68 per cent to 8.18 per cent, while the SARI admission rate fell from 10.56 per cent to 10.45 per cent,” the ministry said.  

The statement added that, to date, genomic sequencing has shown no new mutations detected in the influenza virus.  

Regarding acute respiratory infection clusters, MOH said a total of 30 clusters were recorded in ME43/2025, a reduction of 86 per cent compared with the previous week.  

Detailing the trend by premises, MOH said schools recorded 15 clusters, followed by private residences (seven), kindergartens (four), other premises (two) and nurseries (one).  

“For ME43/2025, no clusters were reported in other educational institutions or care centres. Schools remain the main contributors to the overall number of clusters, accounting for 27,” the ministry said.  

According to the MOH, most individuals infected with the influenza virus recover completely within a few days to a week.  

However, the ministry cautioned that influenza can cause severe infections or complications among high-risk groups such as children, the elderly and individuals with chronic health conditions.  

“Based on ILI and SARI surveillance at sentinel sites nationwide, more than 70 per cent of ILI and SARI cases are among children,” the statement said.  

To protect high-risk groups and prevent the spread of influenza, MOH advised the public to avoid going to crowded places if symptomatic, wear face masks when coughing or sneezing, wash hands frequently, practise proper cough etiquette, and obtain annual influenza vaccinations, particularly for the elderly, children, pregnant women and those with chronic illnesses.  

“High-risk individuals are advised to seek early medical examination and treatment at nearby government or private healthcare facilities,” the ministry said.

-- BERNAMA