A sharp rise in influenza cases has led to several schools being ordered to close after nearly 100 clusters were reported across the country.
The surge in influenza A and B infections comes just weeks before around 400,000 students are set to sit for their Sijil Pelajaran Malaysia (SPM) exams, according to the South China Morning Post.
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“We’re not making mask-wearing mandatory just yet”
Health Minister Datuk Seri Dr Dzulkefly Ahmad shared that Selangor has recorded the highest number of cumulative influenza cases with 174 clusters, followed by the Federal Territories (Kuala Lumpur and Putrajaya) with 103 clusters, and Johor with 51 clusters.
However, when asked if mask-wearing would be made mandatory, he said there are currently no plans to do so, according to Harian Metro.
Dr Dzulkefly Ahmad
He explained that it’s not yet time to make face masks compulsory to curb the spread of the Influenza A virus among the public and instead advised children or anyone showing symptoms to avoid crowded places.
“Anyone with symptoms should stay home and avoid crowded or public areas like shopping malls. For now, the Ministry of Health (MOH) isn’t making mask-wearing mandatory; we’re just encouraging it,” he said.
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Steps to curb influenza spread in schools
Meanwhile, Kosmo! reported that MOH has outlined six measures for parents, teachers, and students to help prevent influenza outbreaks in schools:
- Parents should ensure their children do not show signs of flu, such as fever, cough, or cold, before sending them to school
- If a child shows symptoms, parents should keep them at home and get medical attention immediately
- Parents should observe children with flu symptoms and seek follow-up treatment if their condition worsens
- Teachers should tell sick students not to enter class and to get treatment before returning to school
- Teachers should strengthen health education by encouraging mask-wearing and proper hand hygiene
- Schools should promptly inform the nearest District Health Office (PKD) about outbreaks. Temporary school closures can be considered in consultation with health authorities if needed
Dr Dzulkefly added that if the outbreak is limited to a specific group, control efforts should focus on that group.
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