Denial of COVID-19 Reports

Introduction to the Incident

GEORGETOWN, Guyana, CMC – The Guyana government Wednesday denied reports that three children from a primary school situated close to the bank of the Demerara River had contracted the coronavirus (COVID-19).

In a statement, the Ministry of Education acknowledged being made aware of reports aired on a local media house regarding students testing positive and that the ministry had failed to respond to requests for fumigation and risk mitigation.

Ministry’s Response

“The Ministry wishes to state that this report is false categorically,” it said, noting that following a direct inquiry, the head teacher at the school “has confirmed that there are currently no reported or confirmed cases of COVID-19 among the students or staff.

“No official report of illness has been submitted to the Department of Education or the Ministry,” the ministry said, adding that “this misinformation not only causes unnecessary panic but also undermines the trust and confidence of the public in our education system.

“The Ministry strongly condemns the dissemination of inaccurate and misleading information, especially when it concerns the health and safety of our children.”

Protocols in Place

It said it wanted to reassure parents, teachers, and the general public that the ministry remains vigilant in its monitoring of public health conditions in all schools and that ‘there are clear and active protocols in place for handling any suspected cases of illness, including immediate collaboration with the Ministry of Health.

“Schools are regularly sanitized, and any situation that may pose a health risk is addressed promptly and transparently,” the ministry said, adding it remains committed to safeguarding the wellbeing of all students and staff across the country.

“We urge all media outlets to verify their information before publication and to act responsibly in the public interest,” it added.

Conclusion

The Ministry of Education has denied reports of COVID-19 cases in a primary school in Guyana, stating that the reports are false and misleading. The ministry has reassured the public that it remains vigilant in monitoring public health conditions in all schools and has protocols in place to handle any suspected cases of illness.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Are there any reported cases of COVID-19 in the primary school?

A: No, the Ministry of Education has confirmed that there are no reported or confirmed cases of COVID-19 among the students or staff.

Q: What protocols are in place to handle suspected cases of illness?

A: The ministry has clear and active protocols in place for handling any suspected cases of illness, including immediate collaboration with the Ministry of Health.

Q: How often are schools sanitized?

A: Schools are regularly sanitized to prevent the spread of illness.