As of Monday 21 June there were 249 active cases among school staff members and 558 active cases of learners in the Western Cape.
In the West Coast District, since the school year started, 69 school staff and 96 learners have tested positive for Covid-19.
In a statement Western Cape Minister of Education Debbie Schäfer said while these cases are being reported by schools, the provincial Department of Health has indicated that they are linked to social events rather than attendance at school – the same pattern seen last year with the second wave.
“Our safety measures have proved effective in preventing the virus from spreading at schools, and we must continue to follow these.”
Schäfer said areas may need to be cordoned off and sanitised, and the affected individuals have to isolate.
“I appeal to our learners to behave responsibly at all times. It is all very well to follow the golden rules at school, but if they do not follow them when not at school, they put themselves, their families, and their friends at risk.”
She further appealed to parents to consider the implications of allowing their child to attend unnecessary gatherings. “I understand that our learners and their parents have been through a stressful time during this pandemic, and want to relax and socialise with friends. But we cannot afford to let our guard down after school hours, because the short-term benefit of having fun is outweighed by the risk of infection.”
Schäfer adds that the higher the rate of infection, the higher the chance of tighter restrictions, “so it is up to each one of us to act responsibly”.
Parents must emphasise these golden rules to their children:. Always wear a mask.. Maintain physical distancing – it is not okay to be close to someone if one has a mask on – both are important.. Avoid large gatherings, especially where there is poor ventilation.. Wash hands regularly.
