Mako Jerera
Government`s enhanced surveillance has helped give authorities a full picture of the extent of the Covid-19 situation in schools, which Cabinet says is now under control.
In the past weeks, there have been worrying reports of new multiple cases being recorded, Cabinet recommended that surrounding communities be tested to eliminate possibilities of an under the radar spread.
Cabinet says it now has a full understanding of the spread of Covid-19 in schools and has since deployed strategies to curb it.
Health care workers and Ministry of Primary and Secondary Education have been trained on infection prevention and control, surveillance, risk communication and community engagement.
Information Publicity and Broadcasting Services Monica Mutsvangwa told a post-cabinet briefing that the efforts have helped reduce spread of Covid-19 among learners.
“On confirmed Covid-19 cases in schools, Cabinet advises that 126 new infections were detected through the school’s surveillance system during the week under review,” she said.
“Among these were 77 additional cases at Sacred Heart Primary School, Matabeleland South, 46 at George Silundika High School in Matabeleland North and three at Thornhill High School, Midlands.
“Cabinet wishes to restate that any boarding school learners who test positive for Covid-19 should be isolated at their respective schools and should not be taken home,” Minister Mutsvangwa.
“Cabinet reiterates the position that there should be strict adherence to Covid-19 guidelines by all institutions of learning and those found flouting these will be disciplined accordingly.”
Outside the school environs, there has been complacency by citizens and cabinet has continuously warned Zimbabweans against breaching Covid-19 protocols.
“The nation is reminded that all beer halls, bars, pubs and nightclubs remain closed,” she said.
Additionally, Cabinet highlighted that bottle stores should strictly open for takeaways, as required by the law while restaurants are expected to continue operating at 50 percent sit-in capacity with takeaways and deliveries.
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