Schools in DR Congo’s Ituri province are stepping up Ebola prevention measures after education authorities reported 25 confirmed cases, including deaths among pupils and teachers.
Footage from Wednesday shows students at a school in Bunia undergoing temperature checks and washing their hands before heading to class.
“We were informed through local radio stations and social media that some pupils at schools on the outskirts of the city <…> had been affected. Some cases of infection were reported at one of these schools,” said school director Justin Kenewaro.
Schools are also working to improve access to clean water.
“We have put certain measures in place to help prevent infections among pupils. In particular, the school management had a borehole drilled. Previously, we faced water supply difficulties, especially during the dry season,” Kenewaro added.
Parents’ representatives also reported infections among teachers.
“We are aware that a few schools have been affected <…> Some children and even some teachers had been affected, but these were isolated cases,” said Pascal Takai Bone, president of the Bunia Parents’ Committee.
“I ask teachers to take good care of our children by ensuring that protective measures are followed. The disease is not over yet. As a parent, I know that even if I follow these measures, my child may not always do so,” urged Yasmine.
The outbreak, which reportedly began in May, has been described as the deadliest in DR Congo’s history.
As of October 13, reported figures put the toll at more than 9,000 confirmed cases and 4,300 deaths, with Ituri the hardest-hit province.
Source: Viory
