Miami keeps its Schools open despite exceeding 350 thousand COVID-19 Infections

The situation with COVID 19 in South Florida is not good. The curve continues to rise. This Thursday 2153 new cases were confirmed, for a total of more than 352 thousand people infected in the county since the pandemic was declared, and 14 new deaths totaling 4,644 deaths. Although the peak occurred in the summer, since November the situation has been getting worse.

That does not imply that society is closing. Businesses are still open, restaurants, bars and even discos are open. Tourism is welcome. With certain restrictions, such as the request to use masks and social distance. But Miami is open.

And as it could not be an exception, the classes are still operating. After a complicated end of the year, with virtual classes, the schools reopened in person. Unlike what happens in other parts of the country, in Miami-Dade classes are open to all.

“We have been advised by experts in public health. We have assembled a committee of experts in pediatric medicine and immunology. We are in good hands and that has resulted in a series of protocols that leave very little room for us to doubt”Alberto Carvalho, the Miami-Dade superintendent of schools, explained to national television.

Private schools have their own protocol, which follows the bases of what is established by the public system and includes other possibilities, such as special air filters or UV lights to disinfect the classrooms.

While the situation with the virus remains worrisome, the consensus seems to be that schools should remain open. Parents who are not comfortable sending their children to class have the option of voluntarily opting for a virtual system.