Covid-19: Greece to Close Elementary Schools as of November 16

Photo source: @Ministry of Education

Greek authorities have announced the closure of elementary schools across the country as of Monday, November 16, in efforts to curb the spread of the coronavirus (Covid-19) pandemic.

“The operation of primary education units will be suspended for two weeks throughout the country. Kindergartens and elementary schools will remain closed as in the case of secondary and high schools, until November 27,” Education Minister Niki Kerameus said during a press conference on Saturday.

Special education schools will remain open.

Greek Education Minister Niki Kerameus. Photo source: @Ministry of Education

Despite the fact that the virus’ transmission among pupils remains low, the measure is considered necessary to limit the movement of parents during the day and for crowding to be avoided at points around schools such as kiosks.

Pupils will continue lessons via tele-education as in the case of middle and high schools that are closed since November 7, when Greece entered a second national lockdown. Participation in lessons will be mandatory for pupils and teachers.

Meanwhile, a night curfew went into effect on Friday, banning all circulation between 9pm and 5am with the exception of work- or health-related movement, and walking a pet close to home.

The government has announced that the lockdown will end on November 30.

Greek health authorities on Friday announced 3,038 new coronavirus infections and 38 deaths. Since the start of the pandemic, the total number of cases has reached 69,675. The Covid-19 death toll in Greece has reached 997.