In an effort to slow the spread of the coronavirus, the Victorian Government are issuing 14,000 non-contact infrared thermometers to schools across metropolitan Melbourne and Mitchell Shire.
Following the advice of Victoria’s Chief Health Officer Dr Brett Sutton, the state government announced today that students at government schools in metropolitan Melbourne and Mitchell Shire will receive a temperature check every morning.
“Daily temperature checks will help make sure unwell students stay at home and do not risk spreading coronavirus,” said Minister for Education James Merlino.
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Schools will be required to contact parents or carers to arrange for students to return home if they record a temperature of 37.5 Celsius or higher.
The Government will also provide thermometers to those early childhood education and care services who
require them, along with independent and Catholic schools.
“I understand that this is a stressful time for parents, but we are following the best medical advice and taking every
possible precaution to ensure the safety of all Victorians,” Mr Merlino said.
Up to $45 million has been invested by the State Government to enhance daily cleaning in schools and will continue throughout the next school term.