THE recent uptick in Influenza A cases in Malaysia is seeing higher transmission rates among children, but older patients with underlying health conditions remain at greater risk of fatality, according to public health and epidemiology expert Professor Dr Sanjay Rampal of Universiti Malaya.
He explained that this difference is due to variations in immune system maturity and respiratory tract anatomy between age groups.
“Children and adults differ in terms of immune maturity, respiratory tract anatomy, and virus replication dynamics,” he told Harian Metro. “This results in differing clinical presentations. While influenza transmission may be more widespread among children, older patients with health comorbidities have a higher mortality rate,” he added.
Despite growing public concern following several reported deaths, Dr Sanjay urged the public not to panic. He said the increase in reported infections should be seen in context, and stressed that Malaysia’s healthcare system currently has the capacity to manage the caseload.
“There is no need for public panic at this time, as our health services have sufficient capacity to treat the current number of cases,” he said.
He added although there has been a slight rise in recent weeks, overall transmission levels of Influenza A remain low.
“There is no evidence to suggest that the circulating strain or variant of the virus is more severe than in previous outbreaks,” he added.
Dr Sanjay advised parents and members of the public to remain vigilant and seek prompt medical attention if symptoms arise.
“Consult your nearest general practitioner or public health clinic if you or your children feel unwell, and seek immediate treatment if experiencing difficulty breathing,” he said.
His comments come in the wake of three reported deaths involving children attributed to Influenza A. Two boys, aged four and eleven, from Sabah and Terengganu respectively, were earlier confirmed to have died from the infection.
In the most recent case, Muhammad Syeikhu Azrin, an eight-year-old student enrolled in a special education programme at SK Meru, Klang, passed away early Thursday morning, also due to Influenza A.
Health Minister Datuk Seri Dr Dzulkefly Ahmad has confirmed all three fatalities and urged continued public vigilance. - October 17, 2025
