Influenza A is currently on the rise in Malaysia. As of January 13, a total of 439 people: 99 from the state of Penang, 231 others from Selangor, and 20 others from Cyberjaya and 89 from Johor have been diagnosed with the virus.
According to some local media reports, influenza vaccines were running out of stock. Dzukefly said the ministry has instructed suppliers to replenish stocks.
Private health facilities, which had initially experienced shortage of medications, now have been stocked up.
“For Health Ministry facilities, Pharmaniaga has given an assurance that stocks of anti-viral medicines will continue to be supplied without any interruption to ensure there are sufficient supplies at all times.
“It should be remembered that the use of anti-viral medicines needs to be appropriately considered by doctors as there is a possibility for resistance to the medicines to occur (among patients) if they are used arbitrarily without any control,” he said
Thankfully, the situation is currently under control with the ministry not having any plans to shutdown schools and offices temporarily.
Ministry also encouraged schools to be disinfected and hand sanitisers as well as face masks be used.
Over at Sekolah Kebangsaan Cyberjaya, body temperature checks are conducted on the students, who are also given briefings on the Influenza A outbreak.
Here are some symptoms of having the virus:
- Feeling feverish or cold
- Cough
- Sore throat
- Blocked or runny nose
- Body aches
- Headaches
- Lethargy
If any of these symptoms worsen, be sure to meet a doctor! Get a blood test as soon as possible!
Source : NST