Influenza-like illness outbreak

People are urged to take action to prevent getting infected and to visit nearest health facilities if experiencing flu-like symptoms.

With this increase reported, the MOH clarified there have been no deaths caused by influenza since 2023.

Whilst anyone can get influenza, pregnant women, children under 5 years of age, the elderly and individuals with chronic medical conditions such as diabetes, heart or lung disease or have weak immune systems from other illness or treatment are more at risk of experiencing severe, life-threatening symptoms.

“People with influenza generally experience symptoms like fever either reported or measured (>=38°C) plus, cough (usually dry), sore throat, and other symptoms can include a runny nose, headache, muscle and joint pains, and fatigue (severe tiredness),” the MOH stated.

Antibiotics such as amoxicillin do not work against the flu. Symptoms can be treated by taking the recommended dose of paracetamol to relieve fever and pains, drink plenty of fluids, eat nutritious foods, and take plenty of rest at home. 

People are advised to seek medical care if the symptoms persist over a week and/or if the condition worsens, such as difficulty breathing, chest pain or worsening of chronic medical conditions.

Influenza can be easily spread by an infected person coughing or sneezing on or near another person. A person can also become infected by touching surfaces/objects that an infected person has coughed or sneezed on. This is why it is common for the virus to spread in schools, workplaces and during large gatherings. A person generally gets sick two days after being infected, however this time can range from one to four days.

People are advised to take these simple actions to help protect themselves and others from getting sick:

• Regularly wash your hands with soap and water or use a hand sanitiser, especially after coughing, sneezing or blowing your nose. Dry your hands with a paper towel or by shaking them dry.

• Sneeze into your elbow or sleeve instead of your hands, or cover your face with a tissue when you cough or sneeze. Remember to throw used tissues in a rubbish bin.

• Avoid touching your eyes, nose or mouth.

• Stay at home if you are feeling unwell, feverish or have other symptoms of flu, to prevent others from getting sick. Keep sick children away from school and other activities. Wait at least 24 hours after a fever ends before going into public spaces.

•  Avoid being close to people who are sick with symptoms of influenza.