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Question
There is a flu outbreak in your school. Several classmates are absent, while some are still coming to school coughing and sneezing.
(i) What immediate actions should the school take to prevent further spread?
(ii) If your classmate, who shares the bench with you, starts showing symptoms of the flu, how can you respond in a considerate way without being rude or hurtful?
(iii) How can you protect yourself and others from getting infected in this situation?
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Answer
| Action | Who does it | Why it works |
|---|---|---|
| Keep sick classmates at home until they recover | The school and parents | Resting at home minimises spreading the disease to others |
| Cover the mouth and nose when coughing or sneezing | Everyone | Stops the flu virus spreading through the air |
| Wear a mask in the classroom | Everyone | A mask in crowded places provides protection |
| Wash hands with soap and water often | Everyone | Removes pathogens picked up from surfaces |
| Do not share personal items like towels or handkerchiefs | Everyone | Prevents spread by indirect contact |
The school should reduce spread, sick students should rest, and everyone should follow hygiene.
Explanation
- (i) The school can send sick students home, ask them to rest, encourage masks, and keep classrooms clean and airy.
- (ii) Kindly suggest your classmate see the school nurse and rest at home, saying you care about their health.
- (iii) Wash hands often, wear a mask, avoid sharing items, and cover your mouth when coughing or sneezing.
Isolate the sick, advise rest kindly, and follow masks and hygiene to stay safe.
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