Melaka schools ordered to step up temperature screenings

MELAKA: School and pre-school principals in Melaka have been directed to step-up temperature screenings in the wake of the novel coronavirus (2019-nCoV) outbreak.

Melaka Health, Anti-drug and Unity Committee chairman Low Chee Leong said the state health authorities will alert educational institutions here to start monitoring their students by placing teachers or staff at the entrance before morning schooling hours, starting from Friday (Jan 31).

"We will get the cooperation from the Melaka Education Department on ensuring a smooth implementation of this effort.

"The screening was also meant as a preventive measure against hand, foot, and mouth disease (HFMD)," he said in an interview here on Thursday (Jan 30).

Low said the move is needed to ensure the well-being of children and school staff.

"Those showing signs of fever symptoms would be sent to hospitals or asked to return home," he said.

Low said this initiative by the health authorities came after eight confirmed cases were recorded in the country.

He said parents who had visited China during the Chinese New Year period would be also asked to declare this to their children's schools in order for health officers to monitor the situation.

Low added that schools will be encouraged to have hand sanitiser for the use of students and staff.