Abbott and BIG CARiNG Group have started a three-year partnership to raise awareness about influenza in Malaysia. The Influenza Awareness Program will run from 2025 to 2027 and aims to help people better understand influenza and take charge of their health.
This program shows a shared dedication to improving community health by providing education, engaging people, and making healthcare information easy to access. The initiative will be rolled out in stages in both cities and rural areas, and it will include:
- Health Day influenza awareness sessions: Public events on-ground and through digital channels to educate Malaysians on influenza prevention and care.
- Corporate health outreach: Workplace wellness programs featuring health talks and screenings in collaboration with corporate partners.
- Travel fairs: On-site booths and consultations to inform travelers about flu risks and protective measures.
- School and university health awareness days: Interactive sessions tailored for youth to foster early awareness and healthy habits.
Influenza is still a major public health problem in Malaysia. It is often not reported because it feels similar to regular coughs and colds. However, unlike a cold, influenza can cause serious issues like pneumonia and can make existing health problems worse.
In 2024, more than 30,000 cases were reported in Malaysia, with 17 deaths linked to influenza. Some groups, like older adults, children under two, pregnant women, and people with long-term health issues, are at greater risk of getting very sick.
The World Health Organization (WHO) promotes annual flu vaccinations to lower illness and death rates, especially for high-risk groups. To support this, Malaysia’s Ministry of Health now provides free influenza vaccines to seniors aged 60 and older with health conditions at certain government facilities.
Mr. Kwa Kheng Hoe, general manager of Abbott’s medicines business in Malaysia, said, “Influenza is more than just a seasonal illness—it can disrupt lives, families, and communities. Through this collaboration with BCG, we’re empowering Malaysians to take simple, preventive steps that can make a big difference. Our goal is to help individuals with the knowledge they need to protect themselves and their families from influenza. Together, we’re working to reduce the burden of influenza and build a healthier, more informed community.”
Mr. Loo Jooi Leng, Head of Sustainability of BIG CARiNG Group, shared, “As a leading retail pharmacy across Malaysia, we see firsthand how health awareness can transform lives. This partnership with Abbott goes beyond education; it’s about reaching people where they are and helping them to stay healthy. Through our joint efforts in influenza prevention, and with the support from our strategic partners, we reaffirm our mission to make healthcare more accessible and empower Malaysians to take charge of their well-being.”
Shore up your body’s defenses
Unlike the common cold, flu symptoms usually start quickly and can be mild or severe. Symptoms include feeling hot or cold, cough, sore throat, runny or blocked nose, body aches, headaches, and tiredness.
Here are five expert tips to help Malaysians stay safe from the flu:
- Get vaccinated annually
The most effective way to prevent influenza is through yearly vaccination, administered by a medical doctor. Immunity wanes over time, and flu strains evolve, making annual shots essential.
- Practice good hygiene
Wash hands regularly with soap and water or use alcohol-based hand sanitizers. This simple habit helps eliminate flu viruses from surfaces and skin.
- Cover coughs and sneezes
Use tissues or your elbow to cover your mouth and nose. Dispose of tissues properly and wash hands afterward to prevent spreading droplets.
- Improve indoor air quality
Open windows, use air purifiers, or spend time outdoors to reduce airborne virus exposure.
- Maintain a healthy lifestyle
Get enough sleep, eat nutritious foods, stay active, and manage stress to keep your immune system strong.
For further guidance, visit your nearest BIG and CARiNG pharmacies or explore medicines.abbott.com