SENIOR citizens aged 60 and above with comorbidities are urged to get free vaccinations at public clinics in Penang as a precaution against the rise of influenza-like illnesses. (ILI).
This is following a rise of ILI in the latest public surveillance where the health authorities detected an infection rate between of 9.5 and 10.5 percent.
Following the experiences from the Covid-19 pandemic, the state public health authorities issued a reminder that prevention is better than cure.
State exco for public health Daniel Gooi Zi Sen said that there was a slight rise in cases from 26.7 percent to 28.9 percent with Influenza A as the dominant strain.
The infection rate is lower compared to the same period last year where it was between 35.6 percent to 51.1 percent, said Gooi in a statement.
However, it is better to be safe, and Gooi urged the public, especially the elderly to take precautions when out in public, including in narrow spaces and crowded areas.
Gooi urged the people to constantly wash their hands or use hand sanitizers upon reaching home or in their offices.
Try coughing into one's hands or try doing it with the mouth closed.
Those unwell, should use face masks when out in public, he added.
Gooi also said that those suffering from prolong bouts of flu and ILI should seek treatment. - September 24, 2025.
