Alihan Bulgurcu, Lecturer at Izmir University of Economics, Vocational School of Health Services, indicated that schools were shared spaces for hundreds of people, and observing basic rules of hygiene prevented spread of diseases and illnesses. Bulgurcu reported that dusting and airing the communal areas, classrooms regularly, washing the curtains, mopping the floors by the cleaning crew was very important, but the most important factor in terms of students was washing the hands.

“Hands are exposed to many germs throughout the day. These are carried to the mouth, eyes, open wounds, etc. Washing hands before and after meals, after using the bathroom or after touching dirty things appropriately would protect the student and others in contact from many illnesses. The proper way to wash hands requires using a soap bar or liquid soap and covering all hand surfaces and rinsing hands under running water. It is important to instill this awareness and warn those who fail to wash their hands. Washing hands especially after using the bathroom would prevent many illnesses,” said Bulgurcu.

‘Watch out for school cafeterias!’

Bulgurcu reported that garbage needed to be collected appropriately, separated, and kept hidden. She recommended separating the recyclables such as glass, paper, and plastic.  Bulgurcu also stated that school cafeterias should offer cold chain products that are not expired, and they should be monitored closely.