There is no sign atypical pneumonia is spreading in schools, Secretary for Health, Welfare & Food Dr Yeoh Eng-kiong says, adding that the Government will closely monitor the health of students.

Speaking on radio talk shows today, Dr Yeoh said parents' worries are understandable and promised that the Department of Health will regularly assess the situation.

If the department detects any sign of spreading in schools, appropriate measures will be implemented. Suspension of school classes is one of the possible measures.

Dr Yeoh said he will meet with Mainland health officials later today on enhancing the co-operation of both sides to contain atypical pneumonia.

There are existing mechanisms between Hong Kong and Guangdong Province to deal with a number of infectious illnesses, he said.

At today's meeting, the Government will study the possibility of setting up a separate mechanism to deal with the outbreak of atypical pneumonia.

Dr Yeoh also reiterated that public health is the Government's primary concern amid the outbreak, and refuted speculation the Government has been hiding information on the disease for fear it will affect Hong Kong's image.