Sabah PRN: Take preventive measures to avoid the spread of influenza

TAWAU: The Ministry of Health (MOH) reminds all parties to take appropriate preventive measures to prevent the spread of influenza cases during the 17th Sabah State Election (PRN) campaign next month.

Health Minister Datuk Seri Dr Dzulkefly Ahmad said individuals with symptoms are reminded to wear face masks when involved in campaign activities and on polling day.

“If you have symptoms, don’t go out. Children with symptoms should not be sent to school. If we are in a crowded area, wear a face mask and observe coughing and sneezing etiquette,” he told reporters after opening the new building of the Sungai Imam Rural Clinic, Merotai here yesterday.

The Election Commission (EC) has set Nov 29 as polling day for the 17th Sabah general election, while the nomination date is set for Nov 15 and early voting for Nov 25.

Dr Dzulkefly said based on the Epidemiology Week (ME) report 42/2025, the rate of influenza case consultations in the country increased to 13,508 patients, including 1,174 in Sabah.

He said the Ministry of Health was prepared to deal with the spread of the influenza A epidemic during the election season, including by monitoring symptoms of Influenza-Like Illness (ILI) such as fever, cough and sore throat, as well as Severe Acute Respiratory Infection (SARI).

According to him, several health clinics in Kota Kinabalu, Sandakan, Tawau, Menggatal, Luyang, Lahad Datu, Membakut and Tandek are conducting the monitoring, in addition to the Queen Elizabeth Hospital, Kota Kinabalu and the Sabah Women and Children’s Hospital, Likas.

“MOH is also preparing for the situation by ensuring sufficient supplies of medicines such as antiviral medicines and vaccinations,” he said.

— BERNAMA