Dr. Rana Hajjeh
As educational institutions reopen over the weeks across the region, including in Qatar, World Health Organisation’s Regional Office for the Eastern Mediterranean (WHO EMRO) has urged people to adhere all precautionary measures against the spread of COVID-19, yesterday.
Dr. Rana Hajjeh, Director of Programme Management addressing a virtual press conference said that WHOEMRO developed guidelines on safe return to schools with recommended actions that engage students, teachers, parents, and community members in promoting safety in schools.
“The risk of increased transmission of COVID-19 has risen with opening of educational institutions, and it is important to engage, students, teachers, other staff, parents, guardian and community members to promote healthy and safe school environment,” she said.
According to Dr. Hajjeh, WHOEMRO’s recommendations include staying home when sick, use tissue when coughing or sneezing, covering face, maintaining social distance and having good hand hygiene. She also stressed that people should avoid stigmatizing anyone exposed to COVID-19.
“These actions are essential to prevent the potential spread of COVID-19 inside and outside educational settings,” said Dr. Hajjeh.
“The new upsurge in cases in a number of countries is a matter of great concern as it highlights the negative consequences of lack of adherence to public health measures,” said Dr .Hajjeh.
“As the search for safe and effective vaccine for COVID-19 continues, we must also remember that there are other tools and weapons we have help to fight the pandemic and reduce number of cases and save lives.
“I like to call upon everyone everywhere in our region including parents, teachers, students, caregivers, healthcare workers and many others to be vigilant. Please stay safe,” urged Dr. Hajjeh.
