MOH prepares for influenza surge with proactive measures
Health Minister Datuk Seri Dr Dzulkefly Ahmad assured that all Health Ministry (MOH) facilities and staff are prepared to handle any unexpected rise in influenza cases. MOH hospitals have separate pathways for infectious and non-infectious patients to prevent cross-infections, and a Hospital Disaster Plan is in place to add beds and mobilize staff if needed.
He explained that no universal influenza vaccine exists due to the virus’s frequent mutations. The World Health Organization and CDC monitor strains yearly and develop new vaccines to cover multiple types.
Dr Dzulkefly added that routine laboratory tests are not done for all Influenza-Like Illness (ILI) cases, as most are mild and diagnosed clinically. For high-risk groups, appropriate treatments and antivirals are provided.
