An information note from the Department of Education has been issued.
Main points:
- NPHET are to remove the remaining restrictions relating to mask-wearing and physical distancing in schools. If members of staff or students wish to continue wearing face masks or coverings, they may do so.
- Continued use of good infection prevention and control measures such as hand washing, respiratory hygiene, and ventilation is advised.
- Critical components of the collective response in relation to COVID-19 continue to apply including self-isolation if symptomatic (even if fully vaccinated/boosted) or if having a positive COVID-19 test.
- The requirement to stay at home if you have symptoms remains – for students and staff alike.
- The Department of Education has provided additional funding to schools to support the enhanced cleaning required to minimise the risks of COVID-19. This funding will continue for this academic year and will be reviewed in advance of the start of the next school year.
- The HSE will continue with the current processes to support the provision of antigen tests to primary schools, specialschools and childcare settings.
- Where a positive case occurs in a special school Public Health will undertake a public health risk assessment if the positive case was in the school setting during their infectious period.
See Information Note SD 0003/2022