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The Nigerian Centre for Disease Control has directed schools to conduct COVIDD-19 risk assessment weekly.
The directive comes as part of measures to contain the spread of dreaded COVID-19 virus as more states are set to fully reopen schools on Monday.
The NCDC equally ordered local governments and states to conduct monthly and quarterly COVID-19 risk assessment in schools.
The assessment will give an insight of schools’ level of compliance with safety measures such as physical distancing, hand-washing and the use of face masks, without which safety of students can be jeopardized.
In line with Presidential Task Force (PTF) approval for phased reopening of schools, states such as Ogun, Lagos, Osun, Ekiti, Delta and Kogi States. States, where schools are resuming on Monday, include Lagos, Ekiti, Osun and Ogun have announced dates for reopening of schools.
The NCDC Director General, Dr. Chikwe Ihekweazu on Thursday said it was dedicated to working with relevant stakeholders to ensure early response to COVID-19 cases.
“We know that as the economy and society re-open gradually, we may record a spike in COVID-19 cases. We have reviewed the situation in other countries that have re-opened schools as well as guidance from WHO, UNICEF and other public health authorities.
“There is lesser risk of COVID-19 cases in school settings, if schools carefully coordinate, plan and put the required safety measures in place before reopening.
“The PTF-COVID-19 and Federal Ministry of Education have mandated schools to conduct periodic (weekly) risk assessments. This is to review the gaps that may exist in reducing the risk of COVID-19 spread in schools, and tailor interventions to address these gaps. Local governments areas and states are to conduct monthly and quarterly risk assessment respectively,” he said.
Ihekweazu added, “Schools are to set up school health teams including teachers and learners that would facilitate implementation of the safety protocols in schools. LGAs and States have been advised to set up multi-sectoral school health committees dedicated to supporting and monitoring the implementation of safety protocols in the school.”
This post was written by Obiajulu Joel Nwolu.
The views expressed here belong to the author and do not necessarily reflect our views and opinions.