KOTA KINABALU: Hand, Foot and Mouth Disease (HFMD) cases in the country have increased up to 40,198 as of Wednesday (Aug 1), with Sabah accounting for 2,200 out of that number.
Health Minister Dr Dzulkefly Ahmad told reporters at a press conference in Hospital Queen Elizabeth (HQE) here that seven schools and 18 individual classes in Sabah remained closed to prevent the disease from spreading.
"It is difficult to make up for lost study time, but it is necessary to take these measures to prevent the spread of the virus.
"However, the situation is still under control, and there is no necessity for all schools nationwide to be closed for a period of time to prevent transmission of the virus. At most, only single classes will be closed.
"We will continue with the strict enforcement of gatekeeping procedures at entrances to these premises," he explained.
Dr Dzulkefly reminded operators of childcare centres, preschools and kindergarten to close their premises if the situation calls for it, as prevention is better than cure.
On an unrelated matter, he announced an allocation of RM13,286 to improve the facilities in the HQE.
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