School prevention protocols: Isolation procedures and classroom closures

In a move aimed at enhancing health security within educational institutions, the Public Health Authority (Weqaya) emphasized the need for strict adherence to the procedures outlined in the guide for managing infectious cases in schools. This initiative comes in response to the urgent need to control the school environment, which, by its demographic and structural nature, is a fertile ground for the spread of diseases if rigorous preventative measures are not in place.

General context and importance of school health security

These measures are particularly important given the growing global and local focus on public health concepts following global experiences with pandemics. Schools are not merely student gathering places; they are pivotal points of contact whose impact extends to families and the entire community. The emphasis placed on "prevention" aligns with the Kingdom's health transformation goals, which prioritize prevention over treatment, and ensures a safe learning environment that supports the continuity of the educational process without disruptions that might be caused by uncontrolled disease outbreaks.

Transmission methods and early detection

The guide issued by the authority explained that understanding the dynamics of infection transmission is the first step in control. Transmission methods within schools vary and include:

• Contaminated water and food: causing gastroenteritis and hepatitis (A).
• The respiratory system: via droplets and secretions from the nose and mouth (influenza and colds).
• Direct contact and surfaces: through contaminated hands or shared tools such as pens and door handles.

The authority stressed that schools are not required to conduct random laboratory tests, but rather the system relies on “early monitoring” of apparent symptoms such as skin rash, fever, severe fatigue, or respiratory and digestive symptoms, and taking immediate action regarding them.

Isolation protocols and reporting chain (Fortress Plus)

The guidelines provide a clear roadmap for when a case of illness is suspected, beginning with the immediate isolation of the student in a designated room with specific features (good ventilation, separate facilities), and notification of the parent/guardian. The student is not permitted to return to school until a medical report confirms recovery.

In the event of an outbreak, a series of advanced measures are activated:

1. The report was submitted from the school to the health center.
2. Registering the case via the national “Fortress Plus” system.
3. The situation was assessed by the Infectious Diseases Department of the Health Cluster.
4. Making the appropriate decision, which may include recommending the closure of a class or the entire school, after approval by the executive director of the branch of the authority.

Protecting the most vulnerable groups

The guide paid particular attention to immunocompromised groups, such as cancer patients, those taking immunosuppressants, and pregnant women in the teaching and administrative staff. It identified high-risk diseases requiring heightened vigilance for these groups, namely measles, chickenpox, rubella, and parvovirus B19, emphasizing the importance of completing immunizations as a first line of defense.