Influenza cases across Malaysia have continued to decline, signaling a positive trend in the nation’s fight against respiratory infections. However, with children still accounting for the majority of cases, the Selangor government has launched a proactive vaccination program to strengthen protection among young students.
According to the Health Ministry (MOH), national surveillance data showed a steady drop in flu-like and severe respiratory infections between 19th October and 25th October. The Influenza-Like Illness (ILI) consultation rate fell from 9.68% to 8.18%, while Severe Acute Respiratory Infection (SARI) hospital admissions slightly decreased from 10.56% to 10.45%.
Genome sequencing conducted by the ministry has so far not detected any new influenza virus mutations. Meanwhile, the National Crisis Preparedness and Response Centre (CPRC) recorded 30 confirmed clusters of acute respiratory infections caused by influenza during the same week, marking an 86% decrease compared with the previous week.
Most of the clusters occurred in schools (15) and kindergarten (4) with a few recorded in private homes (7) and other premises. The ministry noted that more than 70% of ILI and SARI cases nationwide involved children, highlighting the need for continued preventive efforts.
While most patients recover within a week, influenza can cause serious complications among high-risk groups such as children, the elderly and those with chronic conditions. The MOH urged the public to practice good hygiene, avoid crowded places when symptomatic, and ensure annual influenza vaccinations, particularly for vulnerable individuals.
Selangor Targets Over 12,000 Children for Free Influenza Vaccination
In a bid for safeguard school children against the virus, the Selangor government has announced a free influenza vaccination program for over 12,500 students across four districts with the highest number of cases, Petaling, Klang, Gombak, and Hulu Langat.
State Public Health and Environment Committee chairman Jamaliah Jamalauddin said the initiative, backed by an allocation of RM1 Million, aims to protect children, especially those from low-income (B40) families, while curbing the spread of influenza within communities.
The program will be carried out through two methods. The first involves school outreach sessions at institutions with Integrated Special Education Centre (PPKIs), covering around 4,720 pupils aged eight and below. Parents will receive information leaflets and a QR code to register their children through the SELangkah application.
The second method will allow walk-in vaccination at Selcare clinics or selected panel clinics, where parents can verify their eligibility via SELangkah before heading to the health facilities.
Jamaliah said the initiative carried out in collaboration with Selcare Management Sdn Bhd, the Selangor State Education Department, and the Selangor Health Department, reflects the state’s commitment to improving children’s health while easing financial pressures on low-income families.
A Unified Effort to Protect Children’s Health
As national influenza cases show signs of improvement, Selangor’s targeted vaccination program reinforces Malaysia’s broader public health goal to protect the most vulnerable. The Health Ministry continues to monitor the situation closely, while states like Selangor are stepping up with preventive measures that could help maintain the current downward trend in infections.
Follow us on Instagram, Facebook or Telegram for more updates and breaking news.
