By Staff Writer
Health related risks have again tripped up the normal flow of education in the country by closing down all schools for a week starting next Monday 1 May 2023.
The health issue this time is officially called Influenza B where as of this week the Ministry of Health has recorded 2,441 cases
Cabinet authorised the closing of all Government, Mission and Private schools for 5-days next week in response to the jump in the count of children undergoing medical treatment for the flu.
Last week alone, 70 cases were admitted, all listed as severe cases.
M.O.H. data also shows that the Pediatric Clinic at the National Hospital recorded an alarming increase in the number of children with flu-like symptoms seeking medical help averaging 150 a day during the same period.
During the five day school holiday, the Ministry of Education, Sports and Culture, (M.E.S.C.) will provide online resources and learning programs via the Ministry’s website, television and radio platforms.
All teachers are required to report to work during normal working hours.
As part of Precautionary measures associated with the Influenza B Flu issue Cabinet also has approved the compulsory wearing of face masks in public places and social distancing to be re-enforced.
Influenza B continues a series of health related issues started by the Measles epidemic around the end of 2019 and followed by the COVID- 19 pandemic from 2020.