MP Musallam Al-Barrak has reiterated his call to delay the opening of classes in all educational levels until the students are vaccinated against swine flu.
Speaking to reporters Monday, Al-Barrak cautioned the public on the danger of this global pandemic, especially after the release of international reports confirming that swine flu will be more dangerous as winter is fast approaching. 
Criticizing the government for its failure to fully prepare for the upcoming season, Al-Barrak lamented “we are now gearing towards the unknown.  Sometimes the Ministry of Health (MoH) downplays the danger of this epidemic only to admit later that this is a serious issue which resulted in the death of some patients.  Isn’t it better to prohibit huge gatherings?  Schools are regarded as the main tool for transmission of the disease.  Under normal circumstances, the Ministry of Education (MoE) cannot control the number of students, so what would happen if students mingle in each class, which usually consists of over 40 students?”

Commenting on reports about the agreement between the ministries of Health and Education to close one class in case a student is infected with swine flu, Al-Barrak argued this is illogical because the concerned officials have disregarded the condition of other students and their families.  He further contended that the relevant ministries have ascertained their preparedness for the new academic year, yet “we noticed the absence of isolation rooms, clinics and nurses after the opening of classes in some schools.”
Al-Barrak also slammed the plan of both ministries to train teachers on how to deal with students exhibiting swine flu symptoms.  “This is a clear manifestation of the government’s inability to provide schools with nurses and doctors,” he opined.

Arabtimes