KUCHING, Mar 6: Preschools and kindergartens have been advised to check the temperature of their students on a daily basis amid the novel coronavirus (Covid-19) outbreak.
Welfare, Community Wellbeing, Women, Family and Childhood Development Minister Datuk Seri Fatimah Abdullah urged establishments without a thermometer to purchase one for the purpose using allocations from their special annual grant.
“Keep the children and staff safe while attending school. When all are present, take a temperature reading of the children and staff,” she said when visiting Pending Sedidik Pre-school and Kindergarten here today.
In light of the global Covid-19 situation, she added that it is imperative that all should be reminded to ensure a high level of personal hygiene and environment.
“This is in line with our intentions in implementing the Baba (Bersih Awal, Bersih Akhir) programme. The practice of hand washing must be emphasised because it is fundamental to the practice of hygiene,” she continued.
Fatimah also advised these establishments to ensure that hand sanitisers are provided for the use of children and staff, as well as parents or visitors to the school. Children must also be taught to cover their mouth with tissue during coughing or sneezing to prevent infection and not to share their spoons, forks or food with others.
On toilet hygiene, she called on all preschools and kindergartens to keep sanitary facilities clean by keeping toilets and toilet seats dry and ensure that toilets are flushed after use.
“Don’t spit in the toilet and do not throw rubbish into the toilet bowls. Wash your hands with soap and water after using the toilet,” she said.
Fatimah reminded that young children need the guidance of adults, educators and caregivers to ensure that hygiene habits are kept at all time among the children.
“I believe that each of us plays a very important role in ensuring that Covid-19 does not spread.” — DayakDaily
