As Covid-19 in Malaysia reduces a tad in numbers, it would appear that the infection rates have only seen a rise in children this year, as compared to last. 

Based on reports by Harian Metro, Health Minister Khairy Jamaluddin noted that cases amongst those aged 18 and below last year stood at around 12,000. However, from the beginning of this year up to now, that number has surged up to over 400,000 cases. 

From the 400,000, stats show that over 250,000 are school-going children, whereas over 40,000, in kindergarten. On top of that, 67 of those children succumbed to the deadly disease. 

The government has since initiated vaccine administration to those aged 12-17 (current: 30% done with first dose), but that alone cannot protect them. As means to prepare for school, which will be reopening again in due time, children should start now and ensure:

1. Wearing facemasks always

2. Washing hands with soap

3. Sanitizing

4. Practicing social distancing

5. Coughing/sneezing in an appropriate manner

6. Being absent from school should they have symptoms or be a close-contact

7. Schools to be disinfected and follow strict SOPs 

"We as parents need to make sure that our children are well adapted to our new normal, and encourage them to follow all SOPs, regardless of being vaccinated or not."

"They should also make it a point to practice healthier lifestyles, like being active, consuming a balanced diet, having a healthy mind, and staying away from smoking."

"It is my hope that all parties, schools, parents and children, lend their hand in implementing and practicing safety measures, to ensure that we remain safe from the virus, and be able to deal with this pandemic's challenges. 

"At the end of the day, every single person must be responsible in executing their role, to curb the spread of Covid-19. Always bear in mind that no one is safe, until everyone is safe", said Khairy.