Education Ministry steps up measures as influenza cases surge in Malaysian schools

Education Ministry steps up measures as influenza cases surge in Malaysian schools



Biscuits featuring a face with a face mask are displayed at the bakery in Dortmund, western Germany, on March 26, 2020. — AFP pic

Friday, 10 Oct 2025 10:26 AM MYT


KUALA LUMPUR, Oct 10 — The Ministry of Education (MOE) has moved to strengthen its response to influenza-like illness (ILI) cases to ensure learning continues safely across Malaysia’s schools, following a spike in new cases and clusters nationwide.

The move comes as Malaysia sees an increase in influenza transmission, particularly in schools.

Selangor has experienced one of the sharpest increases, with reported cases rising by over 80 per cent in one week, and nearly 65 per cent of those linked to educational institutions.

In response, a formal circular containing preventive guidelines has been distributed to all schools through state and district education offices.


Under the guidelines, schools are instructed to manage symptomatic students by arranging for immediate medical treatment and temporary isolation where needed.

“Students residing in hostels who show symptoms must be isolated in the sick bay.

“Parents/guardians must be contacted immediately to collect the student or the educational institution should take the student to the nearest medical centre for treatment with parental/guardian permission,” the ministry said in a statement.


Additionally, teachers are urged to remind symptomatic students to stay home until they recover fully, while the use of face masks is encouraged for students and staff in crowded areas.

Schools must also increase hygiene awareness campaigns to reduce the risk of transmission.

The ministry affirmed it is working closely with the Ministry of Health's Disease Control Division to monitor the spread of ILI and ensure the well-being of all students and school personnel.