Mask mandate reimposed in schools

AS JAMAICA grapples with the fifth wave of COVID-19, the Ministry of Education and Youth has reinstated the mandatory wearing of masks in schools with immediate effect.

The ministry said that the mask mandate is in response to the rising COVID-19 infection rate.

School administrators have been reporting an increase in suspected and confirmed COVID19 cases among staff and students.

In a statement issued Thursday evening, the education ministry advised that students and staff who turn up to school without a mask should not be denied access but should be assisted with a mask to facilitate teaching and learning.

Administrators are also being reminded to resensitise all key stakeholders about the protocols to be observed, including regular washing of hands and temperature checks.