KUALA LUMPUR, 24 May 2026 (The Capital Post) — Health experts are urging high-risk adults, especially older persons and individuals living with chronic diseases, to receive their annual influenza vaccination ahead of Malaysia’s mid-year influenza season.
The call comes amid concerns over low vaccination rates despite growing awareness about the importance of influenza prevention. According to a 2025 nationwide survey involving 672 Malaysians aged 60 and above, conducted collaboratively by the Ministry of Health Malaysia (MOH), the Malaysian Influenza Working Group (MIWG), and several public universities, while 74% of respondents were aware of influenza and 76% showed positive attitudes toward vaccination, only 29% had ever received the vaccine. Of those vaccinated, only about half received the shot annually.
In conjunction with National Immunisation Day commemorated on 7 May 2026, Malaysians are encouraged to take proactive steps to protect themselves and their loved ones through influenza vaccination.
The influenza vaccine is available at general practitioner clinics and private hospitals nationwide for a fee. It is also offered at selected Ministry of Health clinics and hospitals, particularly for eligible groups including adults aged 50 and above with chronic health conditions and all individuals aged 60 and above regardless of health status. Appointments and vaccine availability can be checked through the MySejahtera application.
Professor Dr Zamberi Sekawi, President of the Malaysian Society of Infectious Diseases and Chemotherapy (MSIDC), said influenza vaccination remains one of the most effective ways to reduce severe infections and life-threatening complications, particularly among vulnerable groups.
He explained that unlike countries with clear winter seasons, influenza circulates throughout the year in Malaysia, making continuous vaccination efforts especially important. He also highlighted the vaccine’s long-standing safety record and effectiveness in reducing complications and hospitalisation rates.
Meanwhile, Professor Dr Roslina Manap noted that influenza vaccination is particularly crucial in Malaysia due to the high number of adults living with non-communicable diseases (NCDs).
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According to data from the National Health and Morbidity Survey (NHMS) 2025, 68% of adults aged over 60 are living with at least two chronic conditions, while approximately 30% suffer from diabetes, high blood pressure and high cholesterol simultaneously. These conditions significantly increase the risk of severe influenza complications.
She added that individuals with heart disease face up to five times higher risk of influenza-related death, while people with diabetes are up to three times more likely to die and six times more likely to require hospitalisation due to complications.
Professor Tan Maw Pin, Immediate Past President of the Malaysian Society of Geriatric Medicine (MSGM), also stressed the growing importance of influenza vaccination as Malaysia transitions into an ageing nation.
She explained that ageing weakens the immune system, increasing vulnerability to severe infections and prolonged recovery periods. A retrospective study conducted at the University Malaya Medical Centre (UMMC) found that nearly one in three individuals aged 65 and above experienced serious outcomes such as hospitalisation, intensive care admission or death within a year due to influenza-related illnesses or complications.
She said annual influenza vaccination remains one of the simplest ways to help older adults maintain their health, independence and quality of life.
The awareness campaign is a joint initiative by the Malaysian Society of Infectious Diseases and Chemotherapy (MSIDC) together with the Malaysian Medical Association Foundation Infectious Diseases Fund (MMAF-IDF). – The Capital Post
