Rise in H3N2 flu cases | Classes up to standard 8 suspended in Puducherry schools till March 26

This step has been taken to prevent the spread of the H3N2 influenza, Home Minister A. Namassivayam announced in the Puducherry Assembly on Wednesday

Photograph used for representational purposes only | Photo Credit: SS KUMAR

The government has suspended classes for students up to class 8 from March 16 to 26 in all government and private schools in the Union Territory, to prevent the spread of flu.  

Making a special announcement in the Assembly after question hour on Wednesday, Home Minister A. Namassivayam said there were reports of children falling sick due to the H3N2 subtype of seasonal influenza. 

A video on the H3N2 influenza virus that has claimed two lives in India

All classes up to class 8 will be suspended to prevent the virus spreading to more children, Mr. Namassivayam, who also holds Education portfolio, said in the Assembly. 

The Directorate of School Education said all teachers should be present during office hours. There was also no change in the National Means-cum-Merit Scholarship examination, scheduled to be held this month. The exam will be conducted as per schedule, Director of School Education P.T. Rudra Goud said in a press release.