Influenza: A Hidden Threat to Adults and Children — Why Prevention Matters More Than Ever. Recent reports of severe influenza-related pneumonia, including the tragic deaths of Chinese actor Liang You Cheng and a three-year-old Malaysian girl, serve as stark reminders of the potentially serious consequences of influenza. Often dismissed as a seasonal nuisance, the flu remains a major public health concern in Malaysia, affecting between 5–15% of the population each year and contributing to thousands of hospitalisations and deaths. Health experts warn that influenza should not be taken lightly, as it can escalate quickly into life-threatening complications, especially among vulnerable groups.
According to Dr. Megat Razeem Bin Abdul Razak, Consultant Physician, Respiratory Physician, and Interventional Pulmonologist, and Dr. Noor Zehan Binti Abdul Rahim, Consultant Paediatrician and Paediatric Respiratory Specialist from Sunway Medical Centre, Sunway City (SMC), influenza impacts adults and children differently, but the key to protection lies in early detection and vaccination.
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Influenza in Adults: Not Just Another Cold
Dr. Megat explains that influenza cases in Malaysia often surge during school holidays when more Malaysians return from abroad, inadvertently bringing the virus home. Because influenza spreads easily through air droplets and close contact, crowded environments such as schools, offices, and public transport are high-risk areas. Unlike the common cold, influenza symptoms are more severe — including high fever, sore throat, intense body aches, and fatigue. “For most healthy adults, it’s unpleasant but manageable. However, for the elderly, pregnant women, and those with chronic conditions like asthma or heart disease, it can rapidly become serious,” says Dr. Megat.
Flu symptoms can closely resemble those of COVID-19, making accurate testing crucial. “Testing helps ensure timely treatment and the right diagnosis,” he stresses. Warning signs of severe flu include a fever lasting beyond three to four days, dehydration, vomiting, or persistent nausea. “Antiviral medications are most effective within the first 48 hours. After five to seven days, complications like bacterial pneumonia can set in,” Dr. Megat cautions.
Influenza in Children: Higher Risk, Faster Complications
Children, particularly those under five, face greater risks from influenza due to their developing immune systems. “Influenza can progress rapidly in children, leading to complications that may affect long-term lung health,” explains Dr. Noor Zehan. Severe cases can cause pneumonia, dehydration, or even brain and heart infections such as encephalitis and myocarditis. She urges parents not to dismiss prolonged fever, fatigue, or persistent cough as minor ailments. “If symptoms last more than 48 hours or do not improve with medication, seek medical attention immediately,” she advises. Difficulty breathing, ongoing vomiting, or signs of dehydration are urgent red flags.
Flu Vaccination: A Safe and Powerful Defence
Both doctors emphasise that vaccination remains the most effective way to prevent severe influenza. “The flu vaccine is safe and can be administered to children as young as six months old,” says Dr. Noor Zehan. She clarifies that the vaccine cannot cause flu, as it uses inactivated or weakened virus strains, and any mild post-vaccine symptoms are simply part of the body’s immune response.
Dr. Noor Zehan also notes that repeated influenza infections can have long-term consequences. “Recurrent inflammation from flu can increase the risk of developing asthma later in life,” she warns, adding that flu vaccination and proper asthma management can reduce this risk. Meanwhile, Dr. Megat praises growing public awareness, particularly among his patients, following high-profile cases such as the late Taiwanese actress Barbie Hsu’s husband, who succumbed to flu complications. He also commends government initiatives to expand vaccination access for the elderly and high-risk groups.
For frequent travellers, especially those heading to winter destinations, Dr. Megat recommends annual flu vaccination and consulting doctors about travel plans, as flu strains differ by region. “Maintaining good hand hygiene, wearing masks, and avoiding crowded places when possible remain vital preventive steps,” he adds.
Protecting Children in Schools and Homes
Schools and daycare centres often serve as flu transmission hubs. To combat this, Dr. Noor Zehan encourages preventive measures such as regular handwashing, proper ventilation, nutritious meals, and outdoor activities to boost immunity. Teaching children to cover their mouths when sneezing and to wash hands frequently can also significantly reduce the spread.
“Flu can spread even before symptoms appear, making prevention a shared responsibility,” she reminds. “Protecting ourselves and our children from influenza requires consistent hygiene practices, timely vaccination, and community awareness. Prevention is always better than cure.”
As Malaysia continues to battle rising flu cases, the message from medical experts is clear — influenza is far from harmless, but with vigilance, vaccination, and early intervention, its impact can be greatly reduced for both adults and children alike.