Avoiding catastrophe in the festive period

As Malaysians look forward to festive gatherings and travel at year’s end, experts warn that influenza cases typically surge during this period, posing a serious risk for older adults. For them, falling ill with influenza increases the likelihood of severe complications. The Malaysian Influenza Working Group (MIWG) is encouraging seniors to take action in conjunction with International Day of Older Persons and receive an influenza vaccination prior to the commencement of the year-end season.

Influenza is a threat that can be prevented
According to the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), individuals aged 65 and older account for up to 70 percent of influenza-related hospitalisations and up to 85 percent of influenza-related fatalities. [Available at https://www.cdc.gov/flu/highrisk/65over.htm Accessed on 5 October 2025]

Professor Dr Zamberi Sekawi, chairperson of the MIWG, explained that influenza can result in severe complications, including strokes, heart attacks, and pneumonia. He noted the infection can exacerbate pre-existing conditions and even pose a life-threatening risk to older individuals with diabetes or heart disease.

In comparison to younger adults, older persons frequently exhibit atypical symptoms. “Instead of fever and cough, older persons may present with dizziness that can cause falls, or confusion and delirium. By the time they realise it is influenza, the patient may already be hospitalised with severe complications,” said Professor Dr Tan Maw Pin, consultant geriatrician and chairperson of MIWG’s Influenza and Older Persons Sub-Committee.

Influenza not only poses a health risk but also has the potential to diminish one’s quality of life. Muscle strength and mobility are frequently diminished in older individuals who are hospitalised for influenza, resulting in a slow and occasionally incomplete recovery. “This decline has the potential to result in depression and dependence on caregivers,” observed Tan. “In turn, families are burdened by the financial and emotional stress of long-term care or time off work to care for their loved ones.”

For more than 7 decades, the influenza vaccine has safeguarded millions of individuals worldwide. Health authorities, including the World Health Organization (WHO), CDC, and Ministry of Health (MOH) Malaysia continue to advocate for annual vaccinations, particularly for seniors and individuals with chronic diseases.

Vaccination decreases the risk of hospitalisation, pneumonia, heart attack, and stroke among older adults. Recent research has even established a correlation between the regular administration of an annual vaccination and a reduced risk of dementia. It is important to get influenza vaccinations annually due to the ever-changing nature of influenza viruses. Zamberi emphasised that it is necessary to receive a new vaccination in order to maintain protection, even if one was previously immunised.

It is free for the elderly
The Special Influenza Vaccination Programme of the MOH allows Malaysians aged 60 and older who have at least one chronic condition to receive a free influenza vaccination at a participating Klinik Kesihatan, provided that the vaccine is available. Appointments may be scheduled via the MySejahtera app.

GP clinics nationwide are providing the vaccine for a nominal fee to individuals who are not eligible. Zamberi advised: “Don’t wait until influenza peaks. Getting vaccinated now is one of the simplest and most effective ways to safeguard your health and independence.”