TAMPIN: Sekolah Kebang-saan Tunku Besar Tampin has been temporarily closed to control and prevent the spread of hand, foot and mouth disease (HFMD).

Two siblings, who are pupils in the school, were admitted to Putera Hospital in Malacca two days ago. Both were confirmed to be suffering from the disease.

Only last week, Sekolah Kebangsaan Taman Tun Dr Ismail 1 in Kuala Lumpur was forced to close for three days from July 18 after the disease was detected in six pupils.

SK Tunku Besar Tampin headmaster Abdul Rashid Ahmad said he was informed of the incident after returning from a course in Terengganu on Tuesday, adding that the school's closure was in compliance with orders from the state Education Department.

State Education Department director Abdullah Mohamad said his department had approved the application for leave requested by the school, as early prevention measures were necessary.
"The school has held a meeting with the parent-teacher association on steps to be taken to prevent an outbreak of the disease," he said yesterday.

Abdullah added that the school was also ordered to hold a tripartite meeting with parents and the Health Department to provide and explain symptoms and ways to prevent the spread of HFMD.

"They were also told to arrange a gotong royong to clean up classrooms, the canteen and surrounding areas in the school."

Meanwhile, Negri Sembilan Health Department director Dr Zainal Ariffin Omar said the HFMD reported in the school was an isolated case.

"I want to advise parents and those who live near the school not to worry because we are doing what is necessary and monitoring the school."