No COVID-19 cases at West Ruimveldt Primary School – MoE denounces “false report”

The Ministry of Education (MoE) has strongly refuted claims aired by HGP Nightly News, suggesting that three Grade 5 students at West Ruimveldt Primary School have tested positive for COVID-19, and that the ministry failed to act on calls for fumigation.
The Ministry, in a sharply worded press release issued on Wednesday, labelled the report “false” and “irresponsible journalism.”
Following an internal investigation, the ministry confirmed that no COVID-19 cases have been reported or confirmed among the students or staff at the West Ruimveldt Primary School.
“The head teacher has verified that there are no reported illnesses. Furthermore, no official complaints or health reports have been submitted to the Department of Education.” The statement said.
The Education Ministry blasted the news outlet for disseminating what was described as ‘misinformation that could sow unwarranted fear among parents, educators, and the wider public.’
“This misinformation not only causes unnecessary panic but also undermines the trust and confidence of the public in our education system.” the release stated, urging media outlets to verify facts before publication.
The ministry went further to reassure the public that strict health protocols remain in place, including routine sanitation and immediate coordination with the Ministry of Health in any instance of illness.
The MoE emphasized its commitment to transparency and public safety, noting that any legitimate health threat is addressed swiftly and openly.
While the ministry denounced the report concerning West Ruimveldt Primary, a separate report from HGP Nightly News has again alleged COVID-19 cases at another school—this time at Winfer Gardens Primary.
According to a publication made via social media, two students, from Grades One and Four, reportedly tested positive, with the Grade One student being admitted to the COVID-19 Intensive Care Unit (ICU) at the Infectious Disease Hospital.
It is further alleged that a message sent to teachers at Winfer Gardens indicated that school would be dismissed early to facilitate sanitization.
The Ministry has called on all media outlets to uphold journalistic integrity, and avoid contributing to public anxiety through speculation or hearsay.
“We urge all media outlets to verify their information before publication and to act responsibly in the public interest.”
The Ministry of Health has maintained its call for individuals, especially students, to protect themselves and others from COVID-19 by following preventive measures, such as maintaining distance; wearing a mask if you are unwell and/or in crowded and poorly ventilated spaces, especially if you are in a risk group; keeping rooms well-ventilated; practicing hand hygiene and respiratory etiquette (covering your mouth and nose with a bent elbow or a tissue when you cough or sneeze); getting vaccinated; and staying up to date with booster doses.