Saurabh RamBihariLal SHRİVASTAVA, Prateek Saurabh SHRİVASTAVA

Reopening of schools in the COVID-19 affected areas: Considerations and suggested recommendations

The coronavirus disease-2019 (COVID-19) pandemic accounted for massive interruptions in the lives of all the age-groups of people and the same stands true for school-going children. Although, the decision of closure of schools was taken to ensure overall well-being and safety of children, but we have to acknowledge the fact that it has resulted in a negative impact on education, health status, development, family income and the economy of the nation at large. It has been advocated that educational facilities should be closed only when there are no other options available. In-fact, the policy makers have been advised to plan and implement a set of measures at different levels to negate the possibility of introduction and onward spread of the infection in schools as well as in the local community. In conclusion, the COVID-19 pandemic has significantly affected the lives of school children and it is high time that we take evidence-based decision to ensure schools are reopened. However, a lot of preparedness and risk mitigation efforts need to be taken to ensure the safety of children as well as the community.

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