A Malaysian woman, Fanny, had to cut her trip to Japan short after facing difficulties in receiving proper medical treatment for severe Influenza A and pneumonia.
Her vacation began on January 5, 2025, with excitement as she traveled with her family to experience Japan and the winter snow. However, by the second day, she started feeling unwell but endured the discomfort to avoid ruining the trip.
As her condition worsened, she attempted to buy an asthma inhaler at multiple pharmacies but was told it was only available in hospitals.
Seeking medical attention at a clinic was also challenging, as appointments were required even when there were no other patients.
By January 8, her symptoms escalated to the point where she struggled to breathe, speak, or walk.
My family urged me to return to Malaysia, but I feared being denied boarding due to my condition.
Desperate, I was taken to a hospital, where doctors diagnosed me with pneumonia and Influenza A, advising a week-long hospitalization,” she wrote.
Charged RM15,000 for one-night stay
She refused, determined to return home.
During her one-night hospital stay, she faced unexpected challenges, including being given cold water and ice packs instead of fever medication.
The experience left her frustrated, and she discharged herself despite persistent fever and severe coughing.
The hospital bill amounted to RM15,000, highlighting the high cost of medical care abroad.
On January 10, Fanny pushed through her illness and managed to board her return flight. Despite experiencing breathlessness and persistent coughing, she concealed her symptoms to avoid being stopped.
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Upon landing in Malaysia, she immediately went to a private hospital in Kuala Lumpur, where medical staff found her oxygen levels dangerously low and admitted her to the ICU.
Now in recovery, Fanny reflected on her harrowing experience, highlighting the stark differences in medical care between Japan and Malaysia.
