Top virologist suggests reopening of schools

Schools' reopening: As the Covid 19 cases in the past few weeks decreased significantly after the nation witnessed a ravaging second wave in April-May, India's top virologist Dr Gagandeep Kang on Thursday said that schools should be reopened in a phased manner with vaccinated teachers and staff. The virologist, who is also vice-chairman of the Coalition for Epidemic Preparedness Board, said, "The reopening of schools should be done in a phased manner and the schools should be frequently sanitised. To prevent the spread of Covid 19, social distancing should be maintained in the classrooms and all staff must be vaccinated." Also Read | Tokyo Olympics: Indian men’s hockey team clinch bronze, win medal after 41 years She said that the protection of inoculation is needed for those children who have comorbidity conditions. "Healthy children are less likely to contract Covid 19. The children do not get sick as often as adults, so we need to protect the children with comorbidities," said Dr Kang. The virologist said physical interactions with teachers were very important for children. Kang said that the children should be given an opportunity to get out and have social interactions. "Learning through online classes will surely enhance their skills, but physical interactions is very important," she said. Also read | Ecstatic over Ravi Dahiya’s win, family breaks into celebrations "Before reopening, all teachers should be vaccinated and classrooms should have good ventilation. Children should wear masks inside the classroom, and schools can be run on a shift basis. Lot of precautions should be taken before resuming the schools," the virologist said. -PTC News