Over one third of those currently in quarantine in Iceland are under 18, RÚV reports. Over 500 children are in quarantine in the country due to possible SARS-CoV-2 exposure while 49 are in isolation due to an active COVID-19 infection. COVID-19 infections among staff or students have led to disruptions in programming in five primary schools in the capital area and led to one school closure since the academic year began in late August.
“We are concerned about the number of young people and especially primary school children who are now quarantined,” stated Chief Superintendent and Director of Iceland’s Civil Protection Department Víðir Reynisson. “We know it’s not easy to be in quarantine, I’ve tried it myself. But we also know they are doing a good job and are following instructions.”
Víðir encouraged children who were at home to use their time to read. “I challenge you to set the goal of reading one book in quarantine that is not related to school. It doesn’t mater if you’re read it before, just choose a good book and read it.”
Teenagers Account for Most Infections Among Children
Most of the children with active COVID-19 infections in Iceland are in their teens. There are currently 22 children between 13-17 who are in isolation due to infection, while there are 16 between the ages of 6-12 and 11 children aged five or younger. Children that are put into quarantine must have an adult in quarantine with them. In such situations, parents or guardians have the right to financial support through the Directorate of Labour, while parents who are caring for children with active infections are required to use their mandated sick days.
Authorities Held Briefing For Children
Víðir and Iceland’s Director of Health Alma Möller, who have both regularly held COVID-19 briefings since Iceland’s first COVID-19 case last winter, held a special briefing for children giving them an opportunity to ask questions about the pandemic.
