An Epidemiological Report on Schools Transmission of COVID-19 in Al Bayda City, Libya

Background: In the context of COVID-19, the reopening of schools and resuming the education process at the beginning of 2021, in the east of Libya were under international preventive measures. The aim of the present study was to provide an epidemiological report on the transmission of COVID-19 Cases in primary, preparatory, and secondary schools in Al Bayda city.

Methods: A cross-sectional survey was conducted from the 3rd to the 16th of March 2021. A non-probability sample of schools was included based on school health surveillance reports on suspected cases in 33 schools. From each school, 8 students and 2 staff members have been randomly selected with priority to any symptomatic person. The resultant sample consisted of 264 students, and 66 staff members. Data were collected on age, sex, class, and symptoms of COVID-19. A rapid antigen test was performed as a diagnostic test for COVID-19 to detect the presence of a viral antigen. The specimen was taken from the upper nasopharyngeal swab. A polymerase chain reaction (PCR) test further confirmed every positive rapid antigen test.

Results: Out of 330 participants tested, two specimens were positive from students and one sample was positive from staff members. Two male infected students were detected by the Ag rapid test from different schools. Whereas, one positive case among staff members was female. The infected students reported no symptoms. In contrast, the infected teacher-reported symptoms of Fever, Cough, Shortness of Breath, and Muscle or body aches.

Conclusion: This survey highlights epidemiological concern about COVID-19 among students and staff members in the school settings in Al Bayda and reflects the community transmission in the city. Therefore, prevention policies should be implemented to prevent further school and community outbreaks.