Malaysia Closes Schools as Influenza Outbreak Infects Nearly 6,000 Students Nationwide

Influenza cases have been detected in multiple regions throughout Malaysia.

Kuala Lumpur:

Approximately 6,000 students across Malaysia have contracted influenza, prompting the closure of some educational institutions to ensure the safety of students and staff members, according to an education ministry official.

"We have gained significant experience in managing infectious diseases during the COVID-19 pandemic," stated Director General Mohd Azam Ahmad on Monday, as captured in a video shared by a local news broadcaster.

"We have instructed schools to adhere to established guidelines, encouraging face mask usage and limiting large group activities among students."

While not specifying the exact number of closed schools, he confirmed that infections have been identified in various regions across the country.

The health ministry reported last week that influenza clusters nationwide had increased dramatically from 14 to 97 within a week, with the majority occurring in schools and kindergartens.