No Second Wave Of H1N1 Outbreak Spreading To Malaysia, Says Health Minister

KUALA LUMPUR, Jan 17 (Bernama) -- There is no report of the second wave of H1N1 influenza spreading to Malaysia, said Health Minister Liow Tiong Lai. He said H1N1 influenza was present in the community but at a low level and patients were being monitored in clinics for early signs such as flu and high fever. "We have conducted random checks on their phlegm and sputum to check whether they were H1N1 virus or H3N2 virus (common cold) which could be cured in a short time," he told reporters after presenting the Chang Ming Thien Foundation aid to underprivileged students at Wisma MCA here Monday. Meanwhile, Liow said the ministry was carrying out continuous monitoring of avian influenza virus (H5N1) to contain the infection that was reported in Shenzhen, China and Jakarta, Indonesia, which claimed one death each early this month. "So we are watching the poultry industry and if there is a bird flu contagion, curling will be done," he added. Liow also reminded the public to be vigilant against dengue fever as the outbreak was rising with 400 cases reported last week. -- BERNAMA