Less than a week from the date that schools are scheduled to open, a school in Delft has already reported a COVID-19 outbreak as teachers return to prepare for the school year ahead.
Many parents, teachers and students have felt uneasy about the plans to reopen schools across the country this June, but the Department of Education has assured them that everything possible will be done to ensure the safety of staff and students.
Hague Primary School in Delft has reported a case of coronavirus this week after the management team of the school returned to the school premises to prepare for Grade 7 and 12 learners who are expected on June 1.
As the rest of the nation prepares to return to schools, news of the outbreak is alarming and concerning as pupils have not even set foot on the grounds yet and a case has already been confirmed.
Western Cape Education Department spokesperson Kerry Mauchline is reassuring locals that protocols will be put in place immediately to deal with the case.
“We are aware of a number of cases at schools. Whenever an employee tests positive or is exposed to someone testing positive, the necessary protocols must be followed. These protocols can be found in WCED Guideline L: Managing Covid-19 cases in schools. Schools have been provided guidelines on cleaning as well as what to do when there is a positive case of Covid-19 in a school or if someone has been in contact with a positive case of Covid-19,” says Mauchline.
According to Mauchline those who have been in close contact with a confirmed case will be required to self-isolate for two weeks from the date of their last contact with the individual.
“If there has been a confirmed case of Covid-19 then the school is required to contact the district for assistance in terms of further cleaning by a service provider. In all other cases, schools should follow the guidelines and protocols for cleaning as provided,” adds Mauchline.
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