The Ministry of Public Health (MoPH) has issued a number of tips for schools and nurseries to protect the staff and students from COVID-19.
With three more people tested positive for COVID-19 Sunday, MoPH has reassured that the situation in the country is well under control and has advised the public to contact the hotline number 16,000 in case of any questions and inquiries related to COVID-19. The ministry has also appealed the general public to maintain good personal hygiene and follow the tips provided to make sure that they keep clear of the virus.


















The advisory for the schools and nurseries highlight the best practices to be followed as well as certain practices to be discontinued to prevent the infection of COVID-19. These steps can help prevent the spread of the virus among the school community.
According to the advisory, students and staff should wash their hands with soap and running water for 20 to 40 seconds whenever they sneeze or cough. The institutes have been advised to regularly clean bathrooms, floors, tables, chairs, toys and other surfaces with disinfectant. The door and window handles of the institutes also should be regularly cleaned with disinfectant.
According to the advisory, these institutes should watch out for symptoms such as fever, cough or difficulty to breath among the students and staff. Staff and students with such symptoms should stay away from schools.
Students and staff are advised not to hug or kiss when greeting. Students should be educated on the importance to cover their mouth and nose with their upper sleeve or a disposable tissue when they cough or sneeze. They should also dispose off the tissue in a closed bin immediately.
The institutes have been asked to keep the classroom windows open during the class hours or at least during the break times. This should be done even during cold weather to ensure good ventilation.
If a student suddenly develops any symptoms related to the infection, the child should be immediately separated from the classmates. The school authorities must immediately inform the parents and a healthcare provider should be notified as soon as possible.
Schools should also plan the students’ entry and exit to classrooms as much as possible to minimise unnecessary crowding. Students and staff should avoid touching other’s eyes, nose and mouth with unwashed hands. They are also advised to avoid sharing personal items.
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