Around 6,000 students across Malaysia have been infected with influenza, prompting temporary school closures in several areas as health and education authorities step up containment efforts.
Education Ministry director-general Mohd Azam Ahmad said the ministry is working closely with health authorities to manage the situation, drawing on protocols established during the COVID-19 pandemic.
“We already have extensive experience in dealing with infectious diseases,” he said on Monday, according to a video shared by local broadcasters. “We have reminded schools to follow guidelines, including encouraging the use of face masks and reducing large group activities among students.”
While he did not disclose the exact number of schools affected, Mohd Azam confirmed that infections have been detected nationwide.
Last week, the Health Ministry reported 97 influenza clusters, a sharp jump from 14 clusters the previous week. The majority were linked to schools and kindergartens. Selangor recorded the highest number of clusters (43), followed by Kuala Lumpur and Putrajaya (15), Penang (10), Johor (9) and Kedah (5).
In Penang, state health committee chairman Daniel Gooi said the state remains among the hardest hit by influenza-like illness (ILI) cases, despite a slight year-on-year decline in cluster numbers.
“We expect a similar spike towards year-end, so continued vigilance is important,” he said, urging the public to maintain good hygiene practices such as frequent hand washing, mask-wearing, and proper cough etiquette.
Public health expert Assoc. Prof. Dr. Sharifa Ezat Wan Puteh advised parents to prioritise flu vaccinations for children, who are most vulnerable to infection.
“Annual vaccination is necessary because influenza viruses change over time, and the vaccine is updated each year,” she said, adding that the flu shot is suitable for individuals aged six months and older.
Health Minister Datuk Seri Dr. Dzulkefly Ahmad said the Health Ministry will hold discussions with the Education Ministry on further measures to contain the outbreak.
He assured the public that while the surge in cases is being closely monitored, the situation remains under control.
