Flu surge puts Penang on alert as authorities urge residents to stay vigilant

Penang is one of the worst hit for influenza-like illness (ILI) cases in Malaysia, the state government revealed.

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State health committee chairman Daniel Gooi said that while influenza is not as severe as Covid-19, it still requires close monitoring.

“Parents need to be vigilant and check on their children’s health. If they are unwell, take them to see a doctor.

“For those feeling unwell, wearing a mask is strongly recommended,” he told reporters at a health event at Universiti Sains Malaysia on Oct 12.

Selangor has the highest number of clusters with 43, followed by Kuala Lumpur and Putrajaya (15), Penang (10), Johor (nine) and Kedah (five).

Calling for good personal hygiene to be maintained, Mr Gooi said covering one’s mouth and nose when coughing or sneezing, and avoiding crowded places when ill, could help curb the spread of the virus.