Schools urged to stick to COVID-19 protocols as cases rise to 1 692

Schools across the country have been urged to adhere to strict protocols to prevent the spread of the coronavirus (COVID-19).

According to the latest figures from the Basic Education Department, schools across the country have recorded 1 692 COVID-19 positive cases. This is 523 learners and 1 169 staff members. These cases are only from June, the month of the reopening of schools for grades 7 and 12 in the country.

The Western Cape has the most affected schools of COVID-19 cases at 332 with the Eastern Cape recording the highest in terms of most affected learners with 270.

Western Cape schools have recorded the highest number of infections with 557 of staff members having contracted COVID-19.

Schools that have been exposed to the virus have been closing for disinfection and opening again once given clearance by health officials.

The decision to reopen schools, after closing them in March due to the coronavirus came after President Cyril Ramaphosa announced that the country needed to live side by side with the virus and return to normalcy.

Below is an infographic of SA stats on COVID-19:

Below is the full statement from the Department of Education: