The Ministry of Health has indicated that influenza cases in Malaysia have not shown an upward trend, and no human avian influenza cases have been recorded.
According to monitoring data from the Ministry of Health, the consultation rate for influenza-like illness (ILI) at government clinics during the 4th epidemiological week of 2025 was 4.67%, a decrease of 0.14% compared to 5.81% in the 3rd epidemiological week.
The Ministry stated in a press release today: "During the same period, the hospitalization rate for severe acute respiratory infection (SARI) cases was 7.26%, down from 7.52% in the 3rd epidemiological week by 0.16%.
The Ministry noted that international media reported a surge in flu cases, and according to the World Health Organization (WHO) Western Pacific Region (WPRO) report, the positivity rate of influenza samples tested in the 1st epidemiological week of 2025 was 26.19%, which decreased by 4% to 21.97% in the 4th epidemiological week.
The Ministry stated that based on the weekly report released by WHO WPRO on January 31, no new human avian influenza cases were found in the Western Pacific region, including Japan, and the last recorded human avian influenza case in the region was on January 1.
Therefore, the Ministry of Health is working closely with the Veterinary Department and the Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security to actively monitor poultry farms, wild bird populations, and markets to prevent any potential infection risks.
The Ministry stated: "This initiative aims to ensure Malaysia continues to maintain zero avian influenza cases, while enhancing biosecurity control and implementing strict preventive measures."
It also urged the public to adopt protective measures, including frequently washing hands with soap and water or using hand sanitizer, covering the mouth and nose when coughing and sneezing, wearing masks, especially high-risk groups, and getting vaccinated against influenza annually.
If persistent fever, cough, and flu-like symptoms occur, the public is encouraged to seek examination and treatment promptly at government or private medical institutions.