This morning, I received a message from my son’s school teacher in the parents' WhatsApp group that the influenza cases are rising sharply among students. And for now, the school is allowing pupils to stay at home to help stop the spread. So that’s exactly what I’m doing. I’m “resting” my son, who is 7 years old (Standard 1), at home while he continues to receive homework digitally from his teacher.
Frankly, I’m thankful I made that decision. Word has come that there are confirmed influenza cases at his school, and by keeping him at home, I hope I’ve reduced his risk of catching the virus or passing it on to others. As the situation worsens, I believe this kind of caution is something all parents should consider.
What’s happening in Malaysia right now
The recent numbers are alarming. Across Malaysia, about 6,000 students have been infected with influenza, according to health and education officials. In response, some schools have already been temporarily closed to protect both children and staff.
A key warning sign: in just one week, the number of influenza clusters jumped from 14 to 97. Most of these clusters are appearing in schools and kindergartens.
One state that’s under particular pressure is Penang. Its health committee chairman, Daniel Gooi, has said the northern state is among the worst hit in the country. Penang has recorded 18 influenza clusters so far this year, compared to 19 at the same point in 2024.
In fact, as of Epidemiological Week (EW) 41 in 2025, Penang had a cumulative 36 clusters across kindergartens, primary schools, secondary schools, and higher education institutions. The state’s Chief Minister, Chow Kon Yeow, says the clusters are being closely monitored, and no unusual mutations have been detected so far.
At the national level, Selangor currently has the highest number of clusters (43), followed by Kuala Lumpur & Putrajaya (15), Penang (10), Johor (9), and Kedah (5).
Because so many clusters are centered in educational settings, the Ministry of Health has stepped in. Health Minister Dzulkefly Ahmad says his ministry will consult with the Ministry of Education to consider further steps including possible school closures to contain the spread. He also attempted to reassure the public that despite the increase in outbreaks, the situation is still under control.
Public health experts are sounding the alarm, especially for children. Sharifa Ezat Wan Puteh, a public health specialist, noted that children are among the most vulnerable because most cases are being detected in schools. She urged vaccination (for those eligible), as well as vigilance in prevention and early treatment.
Why this matters for your child and mine
Children tend to be more vulnerable to influenza. Their immune systems are still developing, and they spend a lot of time in close contact with other kids (in classrooms, playgrounds, buses). When one student gets sick, it’s easy for the virus to spread from child to child.
Even though many influenza cases are mild, complications are possible, especially in young children, the elderly, or those with chronic health conditions. If a child develops high fever, shortness of breath, severe cough, or prolonged symptoms, parents should seek medical attention.
Also, the timing is worrying. This outbreak is occurring just weeks before important national exams for many students. Schools and exam boards are being kept on standby in case further closures are needed.
The recent rise in cluster numbers from 14 to 97 in one week, shows how fast influenza can spread under the right conditions.
It’s not just about keeping one child safe. If many children get sick at once, that puts pressure on health services, leads to staff and teacher absenteeism, and disturbs normal school functioning. For families, it means juggling care, work, and recovery.
My Personal Concern
Receiving that notice from my child’s school made me realize just how real this surge of influenza is. I’m not doing this out of fear, but out of care. Resting him at home now may prevent worse outcomes later. By resting him at home, I'm also protecting my 85 year old mother as she is also vulnerable to the virus.
To other parents, please take this seriously. Don’t assume “it’s just a cold.” Right now, with clusters rising so rapidly, staying cautious is the best defense. Use the simple measures above. Monitor your child’s health closely. And work with schools in ensuring learning continues even from home until the danger passes.
We can’t stop seasonal illnesses entirely, but we can slow their spread especially among our youngest, most vulnerable loved ones.
Kamarul Azwan (k.azwan@gmail.com) is a content creator under the Newswav Creator programme, where you get to express yourself, be a citizen journalist, and at the same time monetize your content & reach millions of users on Newswav. Log in to creator.newswav.com and become a Newswav Creator now!
The User Content (as defined on Newswav Terms of Use) above including the views expressed and media (pictures, videos, citations etc) were submitted & posted by the author. Newswav is solely an aggregation platform that hosts the User Content. If you have any questions about the content, copyright or other issues of the work, please contact creator@newswav.com.