The new school year will be starting for most students in September, but there have been some concerns around sending kids back to school with an ongoing pandemic.

 

Medical Officer of Health Natalie Casaclang from the Northern Health Region spoke to Arctic Radio to address these concerns and to provide safety tips for students.

 

Casaclang says that schools are doing a lot of planning and preparation to prevent COVID 19 from coming into the schools including staff screening, hand washing, and physical distancing.

 

She adds that wearing a mask should not take the place of physical distancing and hand washing.

 

Parents that want their children to wear masks at school are encouraged to have their children practice wearing a mask at home first so they can get a feel for wearing one.

 

It’s also important that children refrain from sharing food and drinks with their classmates to prevent the spread of germs and to stay home if they have symptoms of COVID 19.

 

Casaclang recommends that students get their annual flu shots to reduce the chance of student absence.