A new infectious disease cluster has emerged among 39 students and staff members at a secondary school in Yan, Kedah.
Health authorities on alert
Health authorities across Kedah are closely monitoring patients showing symptoms such as fever, cough, cold, blisters, vomiting, diarrhoea, and red rashes.
In particular, they are watching those who recently visited Palas Camp, a private training facility in Yan, after 3 April.
Mansor Zakaria, Chairman of the Kedah Health Committee, stressed the urgency of the investigation. He stated, “Medical officers must immediately report any patients showing these symptoms to the Kedah Health Department.”
Meanwhile, officers across the state have been instructed to remain vigilant.
Investigations and safety measures underway in Kedah
The Kedah Health Department received the first notification of cases on 24 April.
It involved students and staff from a secondary school located in Kuala Muda district.
Following the report, the Kuala Muda and Yan District Health Offices carried out an immediate investigation. As a result, they confirmed that the affected students had recently attended a training camp in Yan.
Among the 763 students and staff, 39 individuals — around 5 per cent — displayed symptoms such as fever, cough, and rashes. Most of those affected are 14-year-old students and a few staff members. Fortunately, all patients are currently stable and receiving treatment at Sultan Abdul Halim Hospital.
In addition, health officials have completed inspections and risk assessments at all related locations. Movement restrictions have been put in place where needed to limit further exposure.
Zakaria urged the public to avoid making assumptions that could create unnecessary panic.
He also reminded everyone to maintain hygiene at home and in recreational areas.
This, he explained, would help reduce the risk of spreading infectious diseases.
