The school closures in Germany and the Netherlands mark a notable turnaround in Europe, where governments said this fall that keeping schools open would be a priority, arguing that they aren’t significant drivers of coronavirus outbreaks. France managed to significantly curb the spread of the virus with second lockdowns in November, despite keeping schools open. Still, researchers warn that surging infection rates can turn schools into transmission hot spots, with secondary schools posing a particular risk. But whereas U.S. school closures have in some areas preceded tougher restrictions on other fronts — including the closure of bars or restaurants — Europe’s most recent school shutdowns have come as a last-resort measure and amid nationwide lockdowns. Researchers cautioned that prolonged school shutdowns will exacerbate mental health issues and put students from poorer families at a disadvantage.

Source: Washington Post December 15, 2020 17:47 UTC