Masks, social distancing back on as schools fear Covid-19 disruption

Hyderabad: Safety precautions to combat the spread of Coronavirus are being reinforced at many educational institutions following reports of a spike in cases in Kerala and Karnataka, while five new infections in Hyderabad took the count of active cases to 14.

Authorities are issuing advisories urging students and staff to practice social distancing, ensure mask discipline, avoid group gatherings, undergo testing, stay home if feeling unwell, and remain vigilant for potential symptoms.

“The sudden rise in cases has disrupted the smooth flow of examinations, earlier with mumps in primary schools and now COVID-19. Nevertheless, the safety of our students and staff remains our top priority. We are adjusting schedules and reinforcing safety measures,” said Vineet Arokya P., a representative of a private school.

While some schools are almost done with their second assessment exams, the majority, particularly Class 10 and Intermediate classes, are gearing up for pre-finals, while degree colleges are to hold end-of-semester exams.

Arokya said that students were informed of the rise in COVID-19 cases in the morning assembly on Thursday, asking them not to panic but to diligently follow COVID-19 guidelines and be on alert for symptoms.

The situation is especially challenging for schools that do not have a winter/Christmas break. Notably, Christian minority institutions enjoy a five-day break from December 23-27, while others have a holiday solely on Christmas day, with a longer vacation in January for Sankranti.

Meanwhile, medical stores also clocked a rise in demand for self-test kits. “We anticipate a surge in the purchase of self-test kits. Two customers have asked for them since Thursday morning,” said Kalpesh R., owner of a medical store in the city.

Experts pointed out that the Covid-19 data put out by the government may not include those testing positive through self-testing at their homes.

Doctors reported a slightly higher-than-normal number of people opting for tests over the past two days.

“Many who have shown symptoms of even common cold and flu have wanted to get tested for Covid-19. While we advise some to get tested without prompting, those who tested negative on the self-test kits ask if they must take the RT-PCR. Many are learning about the new variant and have asked multiple questions about the same,” said Dr Mrudula Mary, a general physician.

Covid-19 in festive season

14 active Covid-19 cases in Hyderabad

Mask discipline, social distancing, and symptom watch back in schools

Concerns arise about pre-final exams held during this period

Medical shops report a rise in demand for self-test kits

Doctors say more patients opting for tests

Those testing negative on rapid tests go for RT-PCR, the gold standard