KOTA KINABALU: The State Education Department has ordered two primary schools in the Kinabatangan district to be temporarily closed following the detection of multiple cases of hand, foot, and mouth disease (HFMD) among pupils there.
The affected schools are Sekolah Kebangsaan (SK) Kota Kinabatangan and SK Paris 3.
Both institutions would remain closed from April 22 until April 29 to facilitate disinfection and containment efforts.
Sabah Education Department director Datuk Raisin Saidin said the closure was based on instructions from the Health Ministry.
“This temporary closure is a precautionary step. We are working closely with health authorities to monitor the situation and take immediate action where necessary,” he said.
Kinabatangan District Education Officer Dr Dalmansa Tahil said home-based learning (PdPR) would be implemented for both schools throughout the closure.
“There is no need for panic. Teaching will continue online until it is safe to return,” he said.
HFMD is a contagious viral infection that commonly affects children aged five and below, though older children can also be infected.
It is spread through contact with saliva, nasal discharge, faeces and fluid from blisters of infected individuals.
Symptoms include fever, painful mouth sores and rashes or blisters on the hands and feet.
