DHAKA: South Korean authorities have ordered nearly 2,000 schools closed nationwide to prevent the spread of Middle East Respiratory Syndrome (MERS).

The health ministry on Monday reported 23 new infections, bringing the total to 87. Six people have so far died in the outbreak, reports the Aljazeera.

South Korea now has the second highest number of infections in the world after Saudi Arabia, according to statistics from the European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control.

Reflecting public concern among parents, 1,869 schools across the country are due to be closed on Monday, the education ministry said.

The government, under criticism for a lack of transparency and failing to respond swiftly to the outbreak, also said it would track people who may have been in contact with patients through their mobile phones.

BDST: 1224 HRS, JUNE 08, 2015
BD/