As the colder months approach, we can expect to see increases in common airborne viruses. Illness is the biggest single reason for school absence; while some absences due to illness are unavoidable, many can be reduced through simple, proactive measures that minimise the spread of infections.
Scientific evidence demonstrates that vaccination, disinfection (cleaning), handwashing, and ventilation can significantly reduce the transmission of infectious diseases. Schools can play an important role in helping reduce the spread of seasonal illnesses, helping keep pupils and staff healthy, supporting healthy learning environments and regular school attendance.
In this blog, former Chief Scientific Adviser to the Department for Education Professor Russell Viner sets out actions schools can take across seven areas for maximum impact.
To access the guidance through the blog, click on the following link: Reducing the spread of illness this winter: Seven steps to healthier schools and higher school attendance