Doctors seeing increase in influenza cases in Penang, advise precautions, limited contact with others when sick

GOT a fever? Stay home. Return to school or work only after being fever-free for at least 24 hours without taking fever- reducing medication.

That is the advice from health experts as influenza cases rise in Penang, with people urged not to mistake the illness for a common cold and risk spreading it at work or school.

It is understood that the state Health Department visited schools where cases were reported, to monitor the situation and provide advice.

Universiti Sains Malaysia family medicine consultant Dr Mastura Mohd Sopian said those with influenza symptoms should rest at home and limit contact with others.

Dr Parmjit: Annual vaccination for flu should be considered for high-risk groups.

“Go back to work or school only when you have been fever-free for at least 24 hours without medication.

“If you have a fever, cough, sore throat, body aches or extreme tiredness, rest at home and reduce contact with others,” she reiterated.

Dr Mastura said influenza could cause serious complications, particularly among young children, the elderly, pregnant women and those with chronic illnesses or weakened immunity.

“Those who need to be around others while unwell should wear a mask and practise good hand hygiene.”

She said people should seek medical attention if symptoms worsened, particularly if they experienced breathing difficulties, chest pain, extreme weakness, reduced fluid intake or prolonged fever.

General practitioner Datuk Dr Parmjit Singh said doctors had seen an increase in influenza cases in Penang.

He said testing depended on symptoms, risk factors and a doctor’s clinical assessment, while annual influenza vaccination should be considered, particularly for high-risk groups.

Penang health committee chairman Daniel Gooi urged parents to equip schoolchildren with hand sanitisers and face masks.

He said children should avoid sharing water bottles or stationery besides covering their mouths and noses when coughing or sneezing, to reduce the spread of respiratory infections.