Philippines suspends in-person classes at Manila schools over hike in flu cases
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According to the department, schools shall implement Alternative Delivery Modalities to “avoid disruption of learning” during this period.
PHOTO: AFP
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MANILA – In-person classes at public schools in Metro Manila have been suspended on Oct 13 and 14 due to the increase in influenza-like illnesses among students and school staff, the Department of Education-National Capital Region announced on Oct 12.
According to the department, schools should implement alternative delivery modalities to “avoid disruption of learning” during this period.
It cited the series of earthquakes that have occurred all over the country as a reason behind the class suspensions.
On those two days, public schools were ordered to disinfect, sanitise and inspect their buildings and facilities.
The department ordered the schools to prepare for earthquake drills and other emergency protocols, as well as implement health and safety practices.
“Private schools are highly encouraged to observe and conduct these measures,” it advised.
Despite reports of a spike in influenza-like illnesses, Department of Health spokesman Albert Domingo said that throughout the country, the instances of such illnesses were “lower than last year thus far”.
Still, the department supported the move by the authorities as a preventive measure to keep the number of cases down.
Earlier, Marikina city suspended classes on the same dates at all levels for both private and public schools due to the spike in flu and flu-like illnesses.
The National University Fairview also implemented preventative health protocols, such as the mandatory wearing of face masks. PHILIPPINE DAILY INQUIRER/ASIA NEWS NETWORK
