Schools in Kiwanja, Rutshuru territory North Kivu have temporarily shutdown following the spread of Ebola in the area.
The shutdown of schools is part of preventive measures according to provincial education ministry.
This mobilization comes amidst the spread of the epidemic in the seven health zones of the neighboring Lubero territory.
Locally, school authorities are stepping up hygiene measures in several schools, including installing handwashing stations at school entrances.
The preventive measures aim to encourage students to consistently practice good hygiene in order to limit the risk of infection.
“Lately, we have been washing our hands with soap to protect ourselves. Previously, it was an obligation, but today it has become an attitude,” a student from Rutshuru said.
However, the lack of handwashing kits in some schools remains a concern.
This mobilization in schools comes as local authorities have also taken measures to limit the risk of the disease spreading.
Following the outbreak’s spread to all seven health zones of Lubero, the Rutshuru territory administration announced, effective October 5th, the suspension of vehicle and motorcycle traffic on the Kanyabayonga–Kikuku, Kanyabayonga–Kiwanja, and Nyakakoma–Ishasha roads.
