School canceled by flu outbreaks

Hong Kong ordered more than half a million primary and kindergarten students to stay home from school for two weeks starting today, after three schoolchildren died amid recent outbreaks of influenza.

Children, teachers and parents at schools wore masks as they walked outside.

The order in effect moves forward the start of an Easter holiday.

Officials in the Chinese territory said the move would help reduce cross-infection and calm public fears.

The World Health Organization said only two of the children who died had tested positive for influenza, and both had other diseases as well.