SHAH ALAM, Oct 14 — Selangor will review the need to allocate a special fund to expand the provision of influenza vaccines following a rise in infection cases, particularly among school students in recent weeks.
Previously, the state government implemented a free influenza vaccination programme beginning in February for high-risk groups, especially senior citizens with one or more chronic illnesses.
Menteri Besar Dato' Seri Amirudin Shari said they would obtain a comprehensive report on the current development of the disease from the Selangor Health Department (JKNS) during the State Executive Council (MMKN) meeting on Friday (October 17).
“I will be referring to the latest influenza cases in the report this Friday. In any case, our approach will depend on the recommendations from JKNS,” he told the press after officiating the Shah Alam Urban Forum at the MBSA Convention Centre today.
Amirudin added that the state government does not rule out using funds from the Sihat Selangor initiative to support the implementation of the vaccination programme if deemed necessary.
“I will re-examine the matter, and if there is a need, we can review the costs and other aspects to ensure our children are protected against influenza.
“Under the Sihat Selangor initiative, the available funds can in fact be used to purchase vaccines, including influenza vaccines,” he said.
The Menteri Besar will also consider providing additional financial support or new funding in the upcoming 2026 Selangor Budget for that purpose.
Amirudin acknowledged that the rising trend in influenza cases in Selangor is not unusual, given the state's highest population density in the country.
