Number of NS trainees in Dusun Minda showing flu-like symptoms up to 61

ALOR SETAR: The number of National Service (NS) trainees showcasing symptoms of influenza-like illness (ILI) from Dusun Minda Resort in Kuala Nerang, has risen from 54 to 61, seven more than reported Sunday.

Out of the 61, four have tested positive for the H1N1 virus.

ILI symptoms include fever, flu, cough and sore throats.

NS director Datuk Abdul Hadi Awang Kechil reassured worried parents that its medical team had everything under control.

"All of the affected trainees are in an upbeat mood and our camp's medical team, together with those from the district health department, are monitoring the situation closely," he said when visiting the camp.

He said that the cause of the virus is still unknown.

"Possibly some of the trainees contracted the virus during the Wesak Day holiday when they were allowed to go home, but we cannot confirm that.

"The affected trainees are separated and placed in the dorms that are around 200m away from other trainees," he said.

He said classroom activities for healthy trainees would carry on as usual, but physical activities would be limited to prevent trainees from falling sick.