Flu epidemic prompts Mexico City to suspend all school, university classes, as strain studied

Mexico City suspends school over flu epidemic

MEXICO CITY — Mexico City has suspended classes at schools and universities to contain what could be a new flu strain.

Health Secretary Jose Cordova says private and public schools in this metropolis of 20 million have been ordered to remain closed Friday. The measure could be extended in coming days.

Cordova says the flu is a “new, different strain that can attack anyone.” He says authorities are investigating whether it is related to a unique new form of swine flu reported in Texas and California. All seven people in the U.S. recovered.

The government says at least 20 people have died nationwide from the flu in the last three weeks, 13 of them in Mexico City.

The total number of cases is estimated to be more than 800.