MALAYSIAN COACH SUSPECTED OF H1NI FLU

By P. Vijian

HYDERABAD, Aug 11 (Bernama) -- A Malaysian doubles badminton coach attached
to the national team participating in the Yonex-Sunrise World Badminton
Championship, is suspected to have contracted the Influenza A (H1N1).

According to an official, the coach was down with fever when he arrived in
Hyderabad several days ago, and was taken to hospital. However, he tested
negative for the H1N1.

"He has gone to hospital this morning, and we will only know the results
later this afternoon," said the official.

The coach is currently being treated at the Chest Hospital in Erragadda,
about 10km from the Gawchibowli Stadium.

Over 850 people have been infected with the influenza in India, with eight
having succumbed to the disease so far, including a medical doctor and a
chemist.

Indian medical authorities are battling to contain the H1N1 flu strain,
which is fast spreading in many states, especially after the end of the
scorching summer season.

In some states, schools and even cinemas have been closed to avoid further
spread of the disease.

The flu has killed at least 800 people worldwide.
-- BERNAMA