Kuala lumpur: About 6,000 school students nationwide have been infected with influenza so far, prompting the closure of several schools on the advice of their respective district health offices. Education director-general Dr Mohd Azam Ahmad said the closures were carried out in accordance with procedures and guidelines set by the Ministry of Health (MoH) to ensure the safety of students, teachers, and school staff.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, Dr Mohd Azam stated that schools have been instructed to implement preventive and control measures to curb the spread of influenza among students. He emphasized that the nation has extensive experience in dealing with infectious diseases from the COVID-19 pandemic. Schools have been reminded to follow these guidelines, including encouraging the use of face masks and reducing large group activities among students.

Dr Mohd Azam also assured that the Education Ministry (MoE) is prepared for any situation as the Sijil Pelajaran Malaysia (SPM) examination approaches on November 3. He noted that the Examination Board has been asked to be ready for these challenges as the SPM begins soon.

Last Thursday, the MoH reported 97 clusters of influenza A and B infections during Epidemiological Week 40/2025, compared to 14 clusters the previous week, with most cases detected in educational institutions. According to the MoH, all states recorded an increase in cases, with the highest numbers in Selangor (43 clusters), Kuala Lumpur and Putrajaya (15), Penang (10), Johor (9), and Kedah (5), with most patients exhibiting mild symptoms.