Ninety-eight teachers from approximately 20 Cape schools have tested positive for COVID-19. The news was announced by Western Cape Premier Alan Winde during a streamed media briefing on Thursday [June 11], and the schools were closed to undergo disinfection this week.
Approximately 1 800 Cape students have also tested positive for the virus.
On June 1, schools were reopened for Grade 7 and 12 learners in the Western Cape. National government has introduced a re-phasing programme, other grades will return to school between July and August.
The province’s MEC for Education Debbie Schäfer reassured parents that the number of cases has not spiked as a direct result of schools reopening. Approximately 1 537 cases were reported before schools has reopened.
There are strict protocols schools must follow to ensure the safety of both students and teachers. These include schools being equipped with digital thermometers, each student and teacher receiving two masks, and classes having liquid soap, hand washing stations, hand sanitiser and cleaning supplies.
The Western Cape recorded 11 696 active cases of COVID-19, with a total of 36 673 confirmed cases on June 11. The number of recoveries is now at 24 040.
The province also recorded an additional 36 deaths, bringing the total number of COVID-19 related deaths to 927.
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