The Penang General Hospital has admitted eight suspected cases of the deadly severe acute respiratory syndrome (Sars) over the past two weeks.

According to a hospital source, three were discharged after routine blood tests and X-rays were done. Four others are expected to be discharged tomorrow, while o­ne is being closely monitored.

Special unit

The source, who requested anonymity, told malaysiakini that the suspected cases are isolated in Ward C16, the chest ward, where a special unit has been set up.

Hospital staff also attended a briefing by Senior Medical Specialist Consultant Dr Lim Yu Hoe today as part of the hospital's preparations to handle Sars cases.

A dedicated counter has been set up for immediate admission of patients who come in with symptoms of flu, cough or breathing difficulties.

A team of specialists and doctors are also o­n eight-hourly standby to respond to Sars cases.

A medical worker told malaysiakini that the suspected cases were mainly those who had come in contact with visitors to Singapore, Hong Kong and Guangdong.

"But there's no cause for alarm yet. Those who have been admitted so far are in better condition than those who may have contracted the disease but have yet not sought medical attention," he said.

Staff, patients and visitors were seen donning protective facial masks which come in various shapes and colours. A random check at pharmacies o­n the island reported brisk sales of the item.