63 schools affected by Covid-19 in KZN

child in school classroom

KwaZulu-Natal has reported 63 schools hit by positive Covid-19 cases since the reopening of schools from June 8. Picture: AP Photo/Matilde Campodonico

KwaZulu-Natal (KZN) reported 63 schools hit by positive Covid-19 cases since the reopening of schools from June 8.

The KZN Department of Education, along with the Department of Health, said they have acted swiftly to handle the cases as they occur.

More cases reported throughout the week as Parkside Primary School in Queensburgh reported a possible case. Newlands East Secondary School and Barracuda Primary School in Newlands East closed for decontamination.

According to the Daily News, Barracuda Primary announced its closure on Wednesday after informing the departments of health and education that a teacher was confirmed to have contracted Covid-19.

Parkside Primary told parents that a parent of one of the pupils had tested positive for Covid-19.

According to reports, the pupil had attended school last Wednesday and Friday but did not attend on Monday.

The pupil underwent tests on Monday. His or her status is yet to be determined.

The Minister of Basic Education, Angie Motshekga addressed the National Council of Provinces on Thursday on the progress of reopening schools and measures to curb the spread of Covid-19 in schools.

“We (department) agree with the Health Ministry that our schools are now the new frontier in a war against the Covid-19 pandemic. 

“We should all consider the reopened schools as the epicentres of surveillance, screening, contact tracing and testing of cases that otherwise would have fallen through the cracks.

“In this regard, we shall move mountains to win this war. It’s a marathon that we are forced to undertake without the necessary prior training and the latest pair of shoes. 

“Nonetheless, we will spare neither strength nor expense. Saving lives while protecting livelihoods is our only priority,” said Motshekga in her address.