Tuesday, 19 October 2021 – 22:33 WIB
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The use of masks is one of the most effective ways to prevent the transmission of COVID-19. (Pexels: Yan Krukov)
New research in the United States shows that face-to-face school reopening is driving up COVID-19 transmission rates and deaths. But it happens in a location where the use of masks is not mandatory.
In Australia, with students in the states of Victoria and New South Wales returning to school after several months of lockdown, many people are concerned about the risk of their children catching COVID-19.
The role of schools in virus transmission is a complex issue but new evidence can now be used as a guide.
Schools do cause an increase in case transmission but there are some simple things that can be done to prevent this so that schools become safe places for children to learn.
To make us successful through the next pandemic and protect our children, we need to implement what is called a ‘vaccine plus’ strategy, namely vaccination actions with steps to make the air circulation in schools better.
New evidence of school reopening
A study in the United States found the opening of schools in late 2020 was associated with increased cases and deaths due to COVID-19.
Some of the reasons for the increase also relate to the easing of restrictions that occurred at the same time, with parents returning to work which also led to an increase in cases.
But most importantly, the increasing cases and deaths are occurring in areas where students and teachers do not have to wear masks at school.
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New research in the United States shows that face-to-face school reopening is driving up COVID-19 transmission rates and deaths
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