The Negeri Sembilan Health Department (JKNS) has denied that there is a spread of H1N1 flu virus in a school here.

According to its deputy director (Public Health), Dr Zainudin Mohd Ali, the five students were actually suffering from influenza A virus infection.

"The letter issued by Sekolah Sri Seremban with the heading 'Notification On H1N1 Virus', which stated that there is a spread of H1N1 virus in the school, was issued without the knowledge of the department.

"I hereby confirm that the five students involved are not suffering from H1N1 infection, but only Influenza A virus infection.

"The symptoms of this infection are almost similar to the common cold," he said in a statement here today.

Dr Zainuddin also urged other educational institutions and schools to refer to the nearest Health Office first before issuing such letters to avoid confusion and anxiety among parents and guardians. - BERNAMA