The WASH in Schools Network (UNICEF, GIZ, Save the Children, WATERAID; Emory, LSHTM, among others) has compiled this knowledge map with links to relevant materials about COVID-19 for learners, their families and the education system. The map is intended for the time when schools are closed and in preparation for re-opening of schools. This will help navigate through the jungle of information about COVID-19, specifically its relevance for the school community. Information was selected from relevant high-quality, reliable sources for the education system, families and for pre-primary, primary and secondary school children.
Handwashing with soap is the first line of defense against COVID-19. Water, sanitation and hygiene are essential services to tackle coronavirus and need to reach everyone including children. Those providing WASH services during the pandemic need to ensure they ‘do no harm’ through their response. This means no direct people-to-people/community gatherings for hygiene promotion whilst social distancing guidance is in place and ensuring any messaging avoids stigmatising or increasing the risk of violence or backlash to any group.