Influenza cases in schools have decreased in 2026, with improved compliance to prevention measures, says the Health Ministry
PETALING JAYA: The Health Ministry (MOH) reported that influenza outbreaks in schools have declined at the start of 2026, with 12 cases recorded from Feb 1 to 7, down from 22 during the same period last year.
Minister Datuk Seri Dr Dzulkefly Ahmad said the figures reflect cases identified during outbreak investigations in schools and serve as indicators of transmission within school communities as influenza is not a notifiable disease under the Prevention and Control of Infectious Diseases Act 1988 (Act 342).
“In collaboration with the Education Ministry (MOE), MOH issued the 2022 Guidelines for the Prevention of Influenza-Like Illness (ILI) in Educational Institutions, with monitoring by District Health Offices indicating that schools’ compliance is generally good and satisfactory,” he added.
Dzulefley said among the key measures include temporary isolation of symptomatic students, advising students to stay home for at least 24 hours after fever subsides without medication, practising hand hygiene and cough etiquette, regular cleaning and proper ventilation of classrooms, and prompt reporting of increased cases to health authorities.
He added that temporary school closures may be recommended by District Health Offices based on risk assessments to protect students and staff.
“We will continue to cooperate with MOE to ensure schools remain safe and conducive for learning.”
