Don't disrupt their studies

"Closure is clearly an unnecessary measure in some cases," Obec secretary-general Kasama Varavarn said.

She said the Watmakutkasarttriyaram School, for example, had shut down between June 16 and June 18, despite the fact there was no evidence its students had caught the new influenza.

Kasama said she had already raised this point with three educational-service-area offices in Bangkok.

At least 14 schools in the capital have closed down temporarily over the spread of the disease.

In nearby Pathum Thani, at least three schools have shut down for the same reason.

"I understand some schools feel huge pressure from parents. But they should consult with the Public Health Ministry first because the closure of schools disrupts children's studies," Kasama said.

Education Minister Jurin Laksanawisit said closed schools must arrange make-up classes for their students.