An evidence-based theory of change for reducing SARS-CoV-2 transmission in reopened schools

Chris Bonell, G.J. Melendez-Torres, Russell M. Viner, M. Brooke Rogers, Michael Whitworth, Harry Rutter, G. James Rubin, George Patton

Research output: Contribution to journalReview articlepeer-review

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Abstract

Schools have closed worldwide as part of measures to prevent SARS-CoV-2 transmission but are beginning to reopen in some countries. Various measures are being pursued to minimise transmission but existing guidance has not developed a comprehensive framework or theory of change. We present a framework informed by the occupational health hierarchy of control and a theory of change informed by realist approaches. We present measures focused on elimination, substitution, engineering, administration, education and personal protective equipment. We theorise that such measures offer a means of disrupting SARS-CoV-2 transmission via routes involving fomites, faeco-oral routes, droplets and aerosols.
Original languageEnglish
Article number102398
JournalHealth & Place
Volume64
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - 21 Jul 2020

Bibliographical note

Funding Information:
Rogers and Rubin are affiliated to the National Institute for Health Research Health Protection Research Unit (NIHR HPRU) in Emergency Preparedness and Response at King's College London in partnership with Public Health England (PHE), in collaboration with the University of East Anglia. The views expressed are those of the authors and not necessarily those of the NHS, the NIHR, the Department of Health and Social Care or Public Health England.

Publisher Copyright:
© 2020 Elsevier Ltd

Keywords

  • COVID-19
  • Disease control
  • Environment
  • Prevention
  • SARSCoV2
  • Schools

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • Health(social science)
  • Sociology and Political Science
  • Life-span and Life-course Studies

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