New Delhi: The Delhi government has asked all government and private schools to strengthen awareness and preventive measures against seasonal influenza, including H1N1, while stressing that there is no need for panic.
The Directorate of Education advised schools to adopt a "Healthy School-Healthy Community" approach and reinforce respiratory hygiene and other preventive practices among students and staff.
"There is no need for panic. There is no emergency situation in Delhi or in the country. Seasonal illnesses, including influenza, are seen during this period of the year. Our focus is on preparedness, awareness and timely preventive action," Delhi Education Minister Ashish Sood said.
"I urge citizens to remain calm, vigilant and follow the health advisory issued by the authorities," he added.
According to the advisory, symptoms such as sore throat, cough, difficulty in breathing, body ache, headache, fatigue, chills and fever may be associated with seasonal influenza or H1N1. It said timely awareness and responsible preventive practices were important, particularly in the school environment.
Schools have been advised to encourage students and staff to cover their nose and mouth while coughing or sneezing and dispose of tissues properly. Regular handwashing with soap and water, particularly before eating and after coughing or sneezing, has also been recommended.
The schools have been asked to maintain appropriate distance from people showing respiratory symptoms, with masks to be used where considered necessary.
They have also been advised to regularly clean classrooms, common areas and frequently touched surfaces and ensure adequate ventilation wherever feasible, it stated.
The advisory also asked schools to generate awareness against spitting on school premises and in public places and encourage healthy habits, including adequate hydration, nutritious food, sufficient rest and personal hygiene.
According to the DoE, students and staff have been advised to avoid frequently touching their eyes, nose and mouth to reduce the risk of infection. Schools have also been told to discourage self-medication, with antibiotics and other medicines not to be taken without medical advice.
It asked schools to spread awareness beyond classrooms through morning assemblies, classroom interactions, notice boards, parent communication channels and digital platforms.
District and zonal deputy directors of education have been directed to monitor compliance and ensure that the measures are followed. They have been asked to submit a compiled compliance report to the Directorate by August 31, it added.
This report was published from a syndicated wire feed. Apart from the headline, the EdexLive Desk has not edited the copy.
