Encourage face mask use to prevent influenza, MOE tells schools

The Education Ministry is encouraging the use of face masks in all schools to curb the spread of infectious diseases such as influenza-like illness, not only among students but also teachers and school staff.

Minister Fadhlina Sidek said the ministry has aligned its current guidelines or standard operating procedures (SOP) with the Health Ministry, which include preventive measures covering health care, safety, and hygiene among the school community.

“At the same time, the ministry is closely monitoring this situation. We have reminded the directors and ministry’s senior leadership in all states to implement the measures outlined under our guidelines.

“These guidelines, together with Health Ministry’s recommendations, serve as a reminder to conduct monitoring, implement preventive steps to maintain health, safety and hygiene, as well as encourage mask-wearing in schools,” she told reporters today.

Fadhlina, who is also Nibong Tebal MP, said this after officiating the Byram Estate resettlement project, which was launched by Penang Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow.

Fadhlina added that while influenza cases have been detected in schools, the situation is under control, with continuous monitoring being carried out among both students and teachers.

She said the the ministry has urged all school administrators to remain vigilant and ensure full compliance with the established SOP to contain the outbreak and safeguard the well-being of the school community.

“We will continue to monitor our students and teachers. We are aware that the school community is large, so attention must be given not only to students’ safety but also to that of teachers.

“Once again, we remind administrators to take precautionary and safety measures to prevent further spread in accordance with our SOPs,” she added.

Commenting on the possibility of school closures if influenza cases continue to rise, she said any such decision would only be made after all preventive measures have been implemented.

“According to our SOP, we will only consider closure after all the required preventive steps have been taken and complied with, as these measures must first be followed to ensure we can control the spread of infection,” she added.

Be vigilant

On a related matter, the Health Ministry advised the public to remain vigilant especially during periods of increased influenza cases.

"While influenza typically resolves without specific treatment, individuals experiencing symptoms like fever, cough, sore throat, body aches, or fatigue should seek medical attention promptly, especially those in vulnerable groups such as children and individuals at high risk," said the ministry in a statement today.

In addition, the public is encouraged to maintain good hygiene practices, including regular handwashing, proper cough etiquette, avoiding crowded areas when symptomatic, and wearing a mask if exhibiting respiratory symptoms to prevent the spread of infection.

The ministry will also continue to monitor the situation closely and take appropriate measures to curb the spread of influenza.

Encephalitis case

Regarding the four-year-old boy from Samarahan, Sarawak, who died Oct 8 at the Sarawak General Hospital (HUS), the ministry said preliminary investigations revealed the cause of death to be encephalitis, which can be triggered by various types of viruses.

"Laboratory tests confirmed the presence of Influenza A, but further investigations by the Sarawak State Health Department are ongoing to determine the exact cause of death," the ministry said.

Initial findings show that the child developed a high fever on Oct 5 and sought treatment at a private clinic the following day.

On the way home from the clinic, the child suffered a seizure and was rushed to the hospital for emergency care.

“Given the severity of the situation, the child was admitted to the Paediatric Intensive Care Unit, where he tragically passed away two days later.

“The ministry extends its deepest condolences to the bereaved family,” the statement added.

- Bernama

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