DCSFs infection control guidance suggests protective equipment should be used by those dealing with a sick child. If the school cannot obtain facemasks what should they do?
The most effective ways to reduce risks are to keep symptomatic children, staff and visitors out of school and to promote good hygiene practices to children, staff and visitors. This means washing hands and using and disposing of tissues safely. Facemasks are not generally needed for school staff unless they are providing close personal care within one metre of a child with symptoms. In such a case, if no facemask is available, the member of staff should try to keep one metre away from the child whenever possible; if the child is young, staff will want to be reassuring towards the child while keeping a distance from him or her. Staff should avoid touching their mouth, nose or eyes unless they have washed their hands and staff should wash their hands thoroughly if they have been near the child.
