No more masks in schools from next week

Thursday 21 April 2022

Masks will no longer need to be worn in Jersey schools when they open after the holidays on Monday.

Health authorities also confirmed this morning that, from 9 May, pupils and staff will only have to take a lateral flow test twice a week.

Officials noted that hygiene measures and ventilation will remain, however, and that mask-wearing, bubbles and visitor restrictions could return "if there is evidence of escalating covid-19 disruption and risk."

Schools have been particularly hard-hit by covid this academic year, with numerous school year groups closing due to staffing shortages caused by illness.

As of 7 April, one in 10 primary school students was absent and two in 10 secondary school students.

To prepare for potential further disruption, Express reported this week that the Government had set aside nearly £600,000 to source supply teachers and temporary education staff.

Last night, the Government reported that there were 725 recorded cases of covid in the community, and nine islanders in hospital with the illness.

There are currently 9 active cases in hospital and 725 on the Island. There have been 94 new cases and 90 recoveries since 20 April.

More information: https://t.co/Maitmw2UQs. pic.twitter.com/7h7dV9IX9i

— Government of Jersey (@GovJersey) April 21, 2022

Deputy Medical Officer for Health, Dr Ivan Muscat, said the change in education policy was "proportionate" as a result of the "decreased incidence in cases on-island and within school age cohorts".

"I'd like to thank parents, teachers, and students for their continued support to keep the spread of covid-19 at a minimum within education settings," he continued.

"In the first two weeks following the return from the Easter break, students are encouraged to continue with daily LFTs. Thereafter, Public Health guidance will be reducing the frequency of LFT testing to twice weekly."

He also urged parents to consider getting their child vaccinated against covid if they have not done so already.

"Even if your child has previously been infected with covid-19, it is still very important to consider vaccination as this will ensure they have the best possible protection. Vaccination has been the key tool to get us to the stage we are at now and keeping up to date with the vaccination programme will continue to keep us safe."