Kuala Lumpur, Oct. 16 -- Malaysia's Ministry of Education (KPM) has reported that around 6,000 students nationwide have contracted influenza, prompting the temporary closure of several schools as advised by local health authorities.

Education director-general Dr. Mohd Azam Ahmad said KPM is in close contact with the Health Ministry to monitor the situation and will comply with any decision to close schools for the safety of students and staff.

He did not specify how many schools were closed, but said the infections were detected in several areas across the country.

He added that school closures are being implemented in a targeted manner, depending on the level of transmission and advice from the district Health Offices.

Last week, the...