Outbreaks in schools double in each of past two weeks

THE number of weekly outbreaks recorded in schools doubled again last week, according to latest data from the Health Protection Surveillance Centre (HPSC).

The figure of 46 outbreaks – two or more confirmed cases – compared with 25 the previous week and 12, 13, 11 and 12 in each of the preceding four weeks.

It brings the total since term began to 119, out of 4,000 primary and post-primary schools.

Although the number is relatively low and schools are not seen as hubs for transmission of the disease, the figure reflects how the increasing level of infection in the community is seeping into education settings.

The spread has added to pressures on principals, teachers and other school staff, compounded by delays in contact tracing and testing because the system was overwhelmed.

The strain on schools was evident earlier this week when some took a decision to close because they couldn’t get updated information from public health officials.

Where an outbreak happens in a school, the HPSC says transmission of Covid-19 within the school has not necessarily been established.

Health chiefs say it is more likely pupils or staff bring in infection.

Confirmation of Covid infection in an educational setting triggers a Public Health Risk Assessment, which determines what action – such as contact tracing – is required.

Post-primary schools are much more likely to experience a case of Covid than primary schools, according to information provided to Aontú leader and TD Peadar Tóibín.

Data released by the HSE in response to a parliamentary question shows that, up to October 14, mass testing had been undertaken at 102 post-primary schools – out of about 730. It compares with 184 primary schools, out of about 3,100.

Testing had also been conducted at 84 childcare facilities and 14 special education settings. Some 56pc of the settings were in the east – classified by Public Health department – with 8pc each in the midlands and north-east, 7pc each in the west and mid-west, 6pc each in the north west and south and 3pc in the south east.