INFLUENZA, A SILENT THREAT TO ADULTS AND CHILDREN ALIKE

KUALA LUMPUR, March 22 (Bernama) -- The recent surge in influenza-related deaths, including those of Taiwanese actress Barbie Hsu and Chinese actor Liang You Cheng, has sparked concerns about the severity of the flu, with experts warning that both adults and children remain at risk of serious complications.

Consultant Physician, Respiratory Physician and Interventional Pulmonologist Dr Megat Razeem Abdul Razak, along with Consultant Paediatrician and Paediatric Respiratory Specialist Dr Noor Zehan Abdul Rahim from Sunway Medical Centre, Sunway City (SMC), emphasised the importance of prevention and early treatment.

Dr Megat noted that flu cases in Malaysia tend to increase during school holidays when families travel abroad, potentially bringing the virus back with them.

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“The flu spreads easily through air droplets and close contact, making schools, offices, and public transport common hotspots.

“For most, it's unpleasant but manageable. However, for the elderly, pregnant women, young children, and those with chronic conditions like asthma or heart disease, it can quickly become severe,” he said.

Dr Megat highlighted that flu symptoms often resemble COVID-19 and other viral infections, making accurate diagnosis crucial.

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“Testing ensures the right treatment, and antivirals are most effective within 48 hours of symptom onset. Delayed treatment can lead to severe complications such as bacterial pneumonia,” he warned.

He also stressed the importance of annual vaccination, particularly for frequent travellers and those visiting winter destinations.

“Flu strains vary by region, so discussing travel plans with a doctor is advisable,” he added, while also encouraging good hygiene practices, mask-wearing and hand sanitisation to reduce the spread of the virus.

Meanwhile, Dr Noor Zehan highlighted that young children, especially those under five, are particularly vulnerable due to their developing immune systems.

She advised parents to seek medical attention if a child’s fever persists beyond 48 hours or if symptoms worsen.

With schools and daycare centres being common flu hotspots, Dr. Noor Zehan stressed the need for preventive measures such as regular handwashing, good ventilation, and healthy nutrition.

“Schools should encourage regular handwashing, ensure good ventilation, provide nutritious food, and organise outdoor activities to strengthen children’s immune systems,” she said.

Both experts emphasised the importance of flu vaccination in preventing severe illness, reiterating that early detection and timely treatment can help save lives.

-- BERNAMA