SHAH ALAM, Nov 4 — Influenza A, which has been identified as a strain that easily spreads and infects humans, has been contributing to a rise in cases in Malaysia.
KPJ Klang Specialist Hospital otorhinolaryngology expert Dr Riana Kipiani Abdul Jalim said that although both Influenza A and B can infect humans, A is more aggressive and could spark large-scale outbreaks.
“Influenza A spreads easily through the air, so individuals with weak immune systems like children, senior citizens and chronic patients are more easily infected,” she said on Media Selangor’s “Bicara Semasa” programme recently.
She added that erratic weather patterns such as the rainy season and dry air could also weaken a body’s defences and increase its risk of influenza infection.
“When the weather keeps going between hot and cold, the protective layer of the human nose and throat become dry.
“When this happens, the body loses its ability to stop the virus from entering the airway,” she said.
Dr Riana said many patients come for treatment after several weeks of being infected, with the manifestation of more serious symptoms such as sinusitis, a lasting sore throat, or ear infections.
“Influenza could pose long-term effects if not treated. When the virus spreads to the sinuses or ears, patients could face long-term cough and nasal congestion,” she warned.
People should not take early symptoms such as fever and colds lightly, she said, and should get an annual influenza vaccine alongside practising a healthy lifestyle to lower their risk of infection.
“The influenza vaccine helps strengthen immune systems and prevent recurring infections, especially for senior citizens, pregnant women, and chronic patients,” Dr Riana said.
