INFLUENZA TREND DECLINES SLIGHTLY IN ME45 - MOH

PUTRAJAYA, Nov 14 (Bernama) -- Influenza activity in the country recorded a slight decline in the 45th Epidemiological Week (ME45) from Nov 2 to 8, particularly in the rates of Influenza-Like Illness (ILI) consultations and positive cases.

The Health Ministry (MOH), in a statement today, said that monitoring was conducted through ILI and Severe Acute Respiratory Infections (SARI) surveillance, along with outbreak reporting via clusters managed by the National Crisis Preparedness and Response Centre.

“To date, genomic sequencing shows no new influenza virus mutations detected in Malaysia.

bootstrap slideshow

“In ME45/2025, the ILI consultation rate was 7.32 per cent, down from 8.34 per cent in ME44/2025. Overall, ILI activity in 2025 remains within the moderate range,” MOH said.

A total of 46 influenza clusters were recorded in ME45/2025, slightly higher than the 43 reported the previous week. Private homes continued to account for the most clusters, followed by schools, kindergartens and childcare centres.

MOH reminded the public to avoid public places when experiencing symptoms, to wear face masks if they have a cough or cold, and to practise frequent handwashing and proper cough etiquette.

“Most individuals infected with the influenza virus recover fully within a few days to a week.

“However, the infection can cause serious complications among high-risk groups such as children, the elderly and those with chronic health conditions. They are advised to seek early examination and treatment at nearby government or private healthcare facilities,” it added.

-- BERNAMA