Moldova feeds soldiers garlic, onion to beat swine flu

Moldovan soldiers have been issued with an extra ration of onions and garlic to ward off swine flu, according to the defence ministry's chief doctor.

"We have introduced an extra 25 grams (one ounce) of onion and 15 grams of garlic in their daily ration," Sergiu Vasilita told AFP.

So far, 24 soldiers have completed treatment for swine flu, while 19 are in hospital with acute respiratory infections, he said.

Moldova has registered more than 900 cases of the A(H1N1) virus infection.

This week, most schools and universities reopened after a quarantine period was lifted, but five schools and one university remain closed.