UCL wants class suspensions in the U.K. lifted, as studies show its insignificant effect in containing the coronavirus.
Class suspensions in the U.K. have no significant impact on controlling COVID
In a study led by the University College London (UCL), school suspension in the U.K. presents an insignificant effect in controlling the transmission of the coronavirus. The study claims that school suspension affects the economic and social status of both parents and school administrators, negatively.
Based on the records of UNESCO, around 90 percent of the schools worldwide have imposed class suspensions.
The team from UCL studied previous cases of outbreaks worldwide and affiliated it with the current coronavirus situation. Data showed that school closures weren’t as effective in controlling the spread of all outbreaks.
The lead researcher for the study, Professor Russell Viner, pointed out that class suspensions can only be effective if the virus is highly contaminable in children. But for COVID-19, it is entirely the contrary. There are minimal cases of the virus transmission in children, and most likely attacking older people and with immunocompromised bodies.
The government remains firm in its prior decision
According to Professor Neil Ferguson, one of the main epidemiologist hired by the government regarding the coronavirus outbreak:
The class suspension in the U.K. alone is not a measurement of how effective the transmission of the virus was contained. But, its implementation paved the way to maintaining a more orderly social distancing protocol that the government wanted from its citizens. The mode of transmission has also declined because there are fewer activities in the city.
Though the team from UCL points out that the negative social and economic impact of school suspension is greater than the benefit it reaps, the government remained firm with their decision.
The government based its decision on a scientific basis and will continue to abide by this decision not unless a better scientific study suggests we are doing it wrong. We are in support of NHS at this moment of crisis and will continue to protect their interest and the lives of our citizens.
