An empty schoolyard in Cambodia.<br/> <br />Government officials have shut down all of its kindergartens and primary schools to prevent the spread of a deadly virus that causes hand, foot and mouth disease.<br/> <br />The virus has claimed the lives of 55 children since April, according to the World Health Organisation.<br/> <br />Most deaths occurred within 24 hours of being admitted to the hospital, affecting infants from three months old to children of 11.<br/> <br />With the closures in force, this newspaper seller in Phnom Penh has her children at work with her.<br/> <br />She says that she and many other parents agree with the decision to close schools, seeing it as a good measure to prevent the spread of the deadly virus.<br/> <br />Authorities said the closures would be in force for 10 weeks.<br/> <br />Sarah Sheffer, Reuters
