Flu and influenza in Kota Bharu. See a doctor early.

Influenza or a common cold?

Influenza usually starts suddenly: high fever, chills, aching muscles, headache, dry cough and feeling completely drained. A common cold builds up slowly with a runny nose, sneezing and a mild sore throat, and you can usually carry on with your day.

Influenza A and influenza B cause a similar illness. Influenza A is behind most seasonal waves and can be more severe in older adults; influenza B is common in children. For you as a patient the important questions are the same: how unwell you are, and whether you belong to a higher-risk group.

Who should see a doctor early

• Adults aged 60 and above
• People with diabetes, heart, lung (asthma, COPD) or kidney disease
• Pregnant women
• Young children, especially under 5
• Anyone whose fever lasts more than 3 days, or who gets better and then worse again

Early assessment matters because treatment options for influenza work best when started early in the illness. The doctor will decide whether you need symptom relief only, a prescription, a test or a referral.

What happens at Klinik Etika

• History and examination: temperature, throat, chest, breathing and hydration
• Influenza swab test — RM50, when the doctor judges it will help decide your treatment
• Treatment for symptoms, and prescription medicines if appropriate after assessment
• Medical certificate (MC) when medically justified
• Referral to hospital if there are danger signs

How long does influenza fever last? Most healthy adults have fever for about 3–5 days, while cough and tiredness can linger for 1–2 weeks.

Influenza vaccine

The influenza vaccine is given once a year because the circulating strains change. It is especially recommended for older adults, people with chronic illness, pregnant women, healthcare workers and pilgrims going for umrah or hajj.

Price: the influenza vaccine is RM55. Stock varies during the season, so please WhatsApp 012-254 0143 to confirm stock before you come.

Danger signs — go to hospital

• Difficulty breathing, chest pain or lips turning blue
• Confusion, extreme drowsiness or a seizure
• Unable to drink, very little urine
• Fever with bleeding gums, nosebleeds, rash or severe abdominal pain — dengue must be ruled out

For these, go straight to the nearest emergency department or call 999. Read more in Malay: influenza di Kota Bharu and influenza vs selesema biasa.

Klinik Etika, Jalan Dusun Muda, Kota Bharu — patients come from across Kelantan: Pasir Mas, Tumpat, Bachok, Pasir Puteh, Tanah Merah, Machang, Kuala Krai and Jeli.

Klinik Etika in English · Bahasa Melayu

This page is general health education and does not replace an examination by a doctor. Individual results vary.