Paradox of reopening schools in COVID-19 era

GLOBALLY, countries have started to emerge from COVID-19 lockdowns imposed to curb the further spread of the disease.

So far, available COVID-19 data suggests that children under the age of 18 represent less than 10% of reported cases globally, with relatively few deaths compared to other age groups.

However, cases of critical illness have been reported. As with adults, pre-existing medical conditions have been cited as the risk factor for severe disease and intensive care admission in children.

At present, there is limited data on the risk of infection and transmission in children.

The easing of COVID-19 restrictions has seen most countries globally reopening schools for face-to-face learning.

The competing demands of safety from infection, general wellbeing and education must be thoroughly considered and balanced before schools are reopened.

Most countries have had to make reopening decisions based on the risks of infection to children.

In Zimbabwe, schools reduce anti-social vices and other behavioural issues.

For instance, reports showed that at least 415 school-going girls dropped out of examination classes in Manicaland province during the March to October 2020 COVID-19 lockdown due to marriage or pregnancy.

The COVID-19 outbreaks in schools have been linked to community transmission with most communities reported to be no longer adhering to standard COVID-19 preventive guidelines.

The recent COVID-19 outbreaks in schools are an important public health lesson given children can be asymptomatic carriers capable of infecting their older family members, resulting in the spread of the virus.

The government has made important strides in ensuring schools are safe for learners and teachers.

However, these efforts have largely been limited in coverage and underfunded.

Many schools in rural areas where the bulk of the population resides do not have access to running water.

Lack of infrastructure has in some cases seen very large classes of up to 70 learners, where it is impossible to social distance.

The need for investment in schools to protect learners, teachers and their families cannot be over-emphasised.