Nearly half of respiratory samples tested positive for influenza from late September to early October, the highest weekly rate since early 2024, and doctors say poorer air quality can aggravate symptoms especially in older people and those with lung or heart conditions. Families should keep older parents' flu vaccinations current when the northern-hemisphere vaccine is available, cut outdoor exposure when air quality is unhealthy, and use polyclinics or preparedness clinics for milder symptoms so emergency departments stay free for serious cases.
Guide
Flu activity hits a 32-month high as haze worsens breathing trouble for seniors
