Shemford Group of Schools MD Suggests Measures and Steps that Schools Can Take to Tackle the Outbreak of COVID-19

Mr. Amol Arora, Vice Chairman & MD, Shemford Group of Futuristic Schools, "Preparedness and proper precautionary measures are the only ways to tackle the ongoing coronavirus outbreak. We need to protect our children, who are more susceptible to infection. There are various steps schools and teachers can take to make sure children are safe. Large gathering for students should be avoided on the school premises. In case any staff member or student has been found to be in contact with an infected person or been to an affected country, they should be directed to stay at home for at least 2 weeks. It is important for teachers to stay alert at all times of any possible symptoms a student might be showing. Fever, incessant cough and difficulty in breathing should be immediately reported to parents so that required tests can be done. Schools should also publicize routine hand-washing and hygiene procedures. Additionally, schools should also make available alcohol-based hand sanitisers at various points within the school campus. In washrooms, availability of soap and water must be ensured at all times. Surfaces that are frequently touched such as doorknobs and desktops should be cleaned and disinfected on a regular basis without fail. Schools can also get in touch with their local health departments, to keep themselves updated with the best practices to contain the spread of the virus. It is important for schools to have communication – not just with the health officials – but with students and their parents as well. All the Delhi primary schools have been shut until 31st March in the wake of this outbreak. But schools should assess their options for educating remotely by resorting to online learning.​"