Rawang, El Sky News — During a health presentation held at Selgate Specialist Hospital Rawang, Dr. Tung Ming Ming, a Consultant Paediatrician, emphasized that the flu vaccine is the most effective step to stop the spread of influenza, especially among children. She also shared comprehensive guidance on how to prevent, treat, and identify the warning signs of this illness.
Flu Vaccination: An Important Annual Protection
According to Dr. Tung, the flu vaccine is recommended for everyone aged six months and above and should be taken annually. The benefits of flu vaccination include:
– Protecting individuals and families from influenza infection.
– Reducing the severity of illness if infected.
– Lowering the risk of serious flu-related complications.
Individual Responsibility in Preventing Influenza
During the session, a public awareness campaign titled “Individual Responsibility (All School Members)” was also shared, focusing on simple yet effective steps to break the chain of influenza transmission:
– Wash hands frequently with soap and water or use hand sanitizer.
– Practice proper coughing and sneezing etiquette.
– Wear a face mask in enclosed or crowded spaces.
– Keep rooms well-ventilated by opening windows and doors.
– Avoid sharing personal items such as towels and pillows.
– Refrain from close contact with friends if showing flu symptoms.
Additional Ways to Protect Children from Influenza
Apart from vaccination, Dr. Tung advised parents to instill good hygiene habits in their children to prevent the spread of viruses:
– Wash hands with soap and water regularly.
– Avoid touching the eyes, nose, and mouth without washing hands.
– Use alcohol-based hand sanitizers.
– Do not share cups or eating utensils.
– Keep children away from individuals showing flu symptoms.
Managing Flu at Home
For children who have already contracted influenza, Dr. Tung reminded parents to focus on home care to speed up recovery:
– Ensure the child gets enough rest.
– Provide small but frequent portions of nutritious food and fluids.
– Dress the child in light clothing if they have a fever.
– Give paracetamol to relieve fever and pain.
– Teach children to cover their coughs or sneezes with tissues.
– Keep the child at home and away from public places while sick.
– Clean household surfaces with disinfectants.
– Use warm baths or steam to ease nasal congestion.
Medication and Preventing Complications
Dr. Tung also explained that antiviral medications can help shorten the duration of the flu, reduce symptom severity, and prevent dangerous complications—especially for children under five or those with underlying health conditions.
“Early treatment within the first 48 hours after symptoms appear is very important,” she stressed.
Moderate to Severe Influenza: Risk of Complications
In more serious cases, influenza can lead to complications such as:
– Prolonged high fever and extreme fatigue.
– Pneumonia (lung infection) causing breathing difficulties.
– Myocarditis (inflammation of the heart) and encephalitis (inflammation of the brain).
– Sinus and ear infections.
– Multi-organ failure.
In rare cases, influenza can even result in death.
When to Bring a Child to the Hospital
Dr. Tung emphasized the importance of recognizing the following emergency signs:
– Infants under three months old with a rectal temperature of 38.5°C or higher.
– Children with chronic conditions such as lung or heart disease.
– Difficulty breathing even at rest.
– Drinking less or urinating very little.
– Persistent vomiting or diarrhea.
– Irritability, unresponsiveness, or confusion.
– Stiff neck or seizures.
Conclusion
The presentation by Dr. Tung Ming Ming (Consultant Paediatrician) on Saturday, 25 October 2025, at Selgate Specialist Hospital Rawang, highlighted that influenza prevention is not solely the responsibility of doctors but of every individual.
With vaccination, a healthy lifestyle, and consistent hygiene practices, the risk of influenza transmission can be significantly reduced.
“Prevention is better than cure — vaccination is a small investment for our children’s greater health,” concluded Dr. Tung. (Langit.News)
Dr. Tung Ming Ming (Consultant Paediatrician) Emphasizes the Importance of Vaccination and Influenza Prevention at Selgate Specialist Hospital Rawang
