KUALA LUMPUR – There have been 4,868 Covid-19 infections and 83 clusters linked to the education sector in the four months of 2021, said Datuk Seri Dr Adham Baba.
The health minister, in a statement today, said 49 clusters with 2,617 cases are still active, pointing to a worrying infection trend among students and teachers.
“Thirty-nine of the 83 clusters, with 1,420 cases, involve schools and institutions under the Education Ministry.
“Nineteen clusters (1,870 infections) involve the higher education sub-category, while 25 clusters (1,578 cases) involve other sub-categories.”
His statement comes amid growing concern among parents and students about the increase in coronavirus cases in schools.
Yesterday, 19 schools in Selangor were ordered shut after clusters were detected. Several other schools nationwide have been issued similar orders.
Dr Adham said the Health Ministry conducts an investigation and contact-tracing, and takes prevention and control measures, upon being notified of infections in education institutions.
A risk assessment is also conducted before a decision is made on whether to temporarily close the whole premises or just specific classes, he said.
“These measures are to avoid the spread of Covid-19 among those in the education sector, including students, teachers, staff and others in the community.”
Individuals must also be screened for symptoms before entering the premises, with those who are unwell advised to immediately seek treatment.
“For education institutions with Covid-19 infections, the management must immediately inform the district health office for the next cause of action.” – The Vibes, April 21, 2021
