KEEPING SAFE: GUIDELINES ON COVID-19

The International Federation of the Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC), UNICEF and the World Health Organization (WHO) issued new guidance to help protect children and schools from transmission of the COVID-19 virus. The guidance provides critical considerations and practical checklists to keep schools safe. It also advises national and local authorities on how to adapt and implement emergency plans for educational facilities. In the event of school closures, the guidance includes recommendations to mitigate against the possible negative impacts on children’s learning and wellbeing. This means having solid plans in place to ensure the continuity of learning, including remote learning options such as online education strategies and radio broadcasts of academic content, and access to essential services for all children. These plans should also include necessary steps for the eventual safe reopening of schools. The guidance also offers helpful tips and checklists for parents and caregivers, as well as children and students themselves. These actions include: • Monitoring children’s health and keeping them home from school if they are ill; • Encouraging children to ask questions and express their concerns; and • Coughing or sneezing into a tissue or your elbow and avoid touching your face, eyes, mouth and nose.