GEORGE TOWN: At least 62 people in the state have come down with influenza and influenza-like illnesses (ILIs) as of noon on Friday, the Penang Health Department said on Saturday night.
A total of 15 of the individuals have been hospitalised, but are in stable condition, said its director, Dr Asmayani Khalib.
She said that the 62 individuals are part of 10 ILI clusters identified across the state based on data obtained from selected sentinel clinics, Bernama reported.
However, Dr Asmayani stressed that the number does not reflect the total sum of people infected, as influenza is a common infection and not subject to mandatory reporting and notification.
Nevertheless, the department is continuously monitoring ILI cases in the state.
Dr Asmayani also said that temperature checks are being conducted on all individuals who arrive at international points of entry, such as the Penang International Airport.
She added that members of the public, especially those in high-risk groups, are encouraged to get the annual seasonal influenza vaccine offered at most private health facilities throughout the state.