Can Reopen Primary Schools First Then Secondary, But Vaccinating Teachers Crucial, Says ICMR DG

Children can handle the viral infection much better than adults since they have lower number of receptors where the virus attaches. Therefore, when India thinks of reopening schools, it will be wise to open primary schools first.

ICMR (Indian Council of Medical Research) DG Dr Balram Bhargava pointed this during a press meet on Tuesday (July 20). While talking about reopening of schools, the ICMR official suggested that the country should consider reopening primary classes first as opposed to older classes. He said the secondary schools can be opened in the later phase.

Citing example of several European countries, Bhargava stated that many countries had not shut schools for primary classes throughout the pandemic. He clarified that through research it has been established that children have a better immune response and can fight viruses like Covid19 much easier as compared to adults.