The article “Reopening schools during the COVID-19 pandemic: governments must balance the uncertainty and risks of reopening schools against the clear harms associated with prolonged closure” has recently been published.
Evidence to guide countries on reopening schools are sparse and there is continuing uncertainty about the degree to which school children are susceptible to and transmit COVID-19. However decisions will need to be made based upon currently available evidence and recognising that both reopening schools and keeping them closed carry considerable risk. This article reviews the benefits and risks of school closure and outlines five key principles for reopening schools:
- Reopen schools in a staged fashion
- Incorporate social distancing
- Infection control, testing and tracing
- Protect teachers and vulnerable students
- Research and evaluate
Read the full article.
