TAWAU: The Health Ministry (MoH) is preparing for the upcoming 17th Sabah Election next month, with a focus on preventing the spread of the Influenza A (H3N2) virus.
During week 42 of surveillance, 1,744 people in Sabah sought medical attention for influenza-like illness (ILI), contributing to the national increase of ILI cases to 13,408 or 9.68 per cent compared to 9.21 per cent in the previous week.
Health Minister Datuk Seri Dr Dzulkefly Ahmad said sentinel clinics have been set up in key locations including Kota Kinabalu, Sandakan, Tawau, Lahad Datu, and Kota Marudu to strengthen monitoring and response efforts.
He said genomic surveillance is also being conducted to track virus mutations and detect potential outbreaks early, though H3N2 remains a seasonal flu that primarily affects children, the elderly, and high-risk individuals.
Dzulkefly added that the ministry has ensured adequate medical supplies, antivirals, and vaccines, while advising voters to wear masks and avoid public gatherings if experiencing flu symptoms.
