SARS-CoV-2 widespread diagnostic testing launched at schools

Scalable programs for school-based SARS-CoV-2 testing and surveillance have been carried out in cities and districts where some Covid-19 clusters emerged in the past week.  

Quang Ninh province has recorded hundreds of Covid-19 infected cases within the community with some emerging clusters in Uong Bi city and Dong Trieu town. Especially, 16 school children were infected with Covid-19 during the period from October 12 to November 6.

The widespread screening and surveillance testing aims to protect this vulnerable group of inhabitants, prevent the spread of Covid-19, and flatten the curve.

Accordingly, 100 % of students, teachers and employes related to school-based activities have been taken samples for Covid-19 testing under antigen rapid test or pooled RT-PCR testing. The program is scheduled to finish on November 11, 2021.

According to the Department of Education and Training, 3 students including two primary school ones and a secondary school learner in Dong Trieu town were tested positive for Covid-19 during two days from November 9. 146 cases consisting of 9 teachers and 137 students have become F1.

Quang Ninh authorities directed the Department of Education and Training and relevant localities to tighten control over the implemention of Covid-19 prevention and control regulations at school, ensuring the safety of students across the province.