Influenza: A Silent Threat To Adults and Children Alike

21 March 2025

Amid rising influenza cases in the world and Asia, the recent passing of Taiwanese actress Barbie Hsu from influenza-related pneumonia, followed by the death of Chinese actor Liang You Cheng from flu infection, and, most recently, a three-year-old Malaysian girl due to worsening cold-related complications, serves as a stark reminder of the potentially severe consequences of influenza.  

In Malaysia alone, influenza affects 5-15 per cent of the population annually, contributing to thousands of severe illnesses and deaths. While many consider the flu a seasonal inconvenience, it remains a significant public health concern, causing millions of severe cases and yearly fatalities. 

Dr Megat Razeem Abdul Razak, consultant physician, respiratory physician, and interventional pulmonologist, as well as Dr Noor Zehan Abdul Rahim, consultant paediatrician and paediatric respiratory specialist from Sunway Medical Centre, provide insights into how influenza affects adults and children differently and highlight the importance of proactive measures to curb its spread.

Influenza In Adults: A Persistent Concern

According to Dr Megat, cases often spike during school holiday terms when more Malaysians return from overseas, bringing the virus home.

With flu spreading easily through air droplets and close contact, places like schools, offices, and public transport have become hotspots for infection.

Unlike the common cold, influenza hits harder, bringing high fever, sore throat, body aches, and extreme fatigue.

“For most, it’s unpleasant but manageable. But for the elderly, pregnant women, young children, and those with chronic conditions like asthma or heart disease, it can turn serious fast,” said Dr Megat.

Complications like pneumonia and respiratory failure can be life-threatening, making early treatment critical.

The challenge is that flu symptoms often mimic Covid-19 and other viral infections.

“That’s why testing is important for the right diagnosis,” Dr Megat explained.

Warning signs of severe flu include a fever lasting more than three to four days, dehydration, nausea, vomiting, or diarrhoea.

“Antiviral medication works best within 48 hours. After five to seven days, complications like bacterial pneumonia can set in,” he warned.

Influenza In Children: A Greater Risk For The Young

Influenza can strike anyone, but young children, especially those under five, are among the most vulnerable.

Their immune systems are still developing, making them more prone to severe symptoms compared to older family members.

“Influenza can progress rapidly in children, which is why early intervention is crucial to prevent long-term complications that may impact their future lung function,” warned Dr. Noor Zehan.

Severe flu cases in children can lead to pneumonia, dehydration, and, in rare cases, infections affecting the brain or heart, such as encephalitis or myocarditis.

Symptoms like high fever, body aches, cough, and fatigue should never be dismissed as just another childhood illness.

“If symptoms persist beyond 48 hours or fever doesn’t subside with medication, parents should seek medical attention immediately,” she advised.

Difficulty breathing, persistent vomiting, and signs of dehydration are red flags that require urgent care.

Flu Vaccination: A Simple Step To Prevent Serious Illness

Despite its effectiveness, flu vaccination is often misunderstood. “The flu vaccine is safe and recommended for children as young as six months old,” affirmed Dr Noor Zehan.

“It significantly reduces the risk of severe illness and hospitalisation.”

She urges parents to ignore myths that the vaccine causes the flu. “It contains inactivated or weakened virus strains, meaning any mild symptoms post-vaccination are part of the body’s natural immune response.”

Beyond immediate flu risks, repeated influenza infections can have long-term effects.

“Repeated inflammation from the flu can increase a child’s risk of developing asthma in the future,” warned Dr. Noor Zehan.

Children typically experience up to six upper respiratory tract infections per year, but frequent, severe infections may indicate a higher risk.

“Regular flu vaccinations and proper asthma management are essential in reducing this risk.”

“Vaccination remains the best defence,” said Dr. Megat.

“Fortunately, my patients cooperate in getting vaccinated, and I’m glad awareness has grown, especially after Barbie Hsu’s passing. I’m also encouraged by the government’s initiative to provide vaccines for the elderly and high-risk groups.”

For frequent travellers, particularly to winter destinations, extra precautions are key. Dr Megat recommends annual vaccination and advising doctors about travel plans, as flu strains vary by region.

“Practising good hand hygiene and avoiding crowded places whenever possible is essential,” he added.

Wearing masks, maintaining a healthy lifestyle, and carrying hand sanitisers can further reduce infection risk.

Protecting Children In Schools And Homes

Prevention must start early, with schools and daycare centres being common flu hotspots.

“Schools should encourage regular handwashing, ensure good ventilation, provide nutritious food, and arrange outdoor activities to strengthen children’s immune systems,” Dr Noor Zehan suggested.

Teaching children to cover their mouths when sneezing and washing hands frequently can help reduce spread. 

Parents should also remember that flu can spread before symptoms appear, making prevention even more critical.

“Protecting ourselves and our children from the flu is a shared responsibility. Prevention is always better than cure,” Dr Noor Zehan concluded.

Source: Ova

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