1. Roles of Nigerian Educational Institutions in the Prevention and Control of Emerging Infectious Diseases in Schools

Abstract

Educational institutions cannot achieve their primary mission of education if students and staff are not healthy and fit physically, mentally, and socially. Thus, controlling emerging infectious diseases in educational settings is of utmost importance. Providing a safe, comfortable, and healthy environment facilitates the educational process, encourages social development, and allows students to acquire healthy attitudes toward school. This paper focused on roles of Nigerian educational institutions in the prevention and control of emerging infectious diseases in school. It explained the concepts of emerging infectious diseases, and infection control. Classifications of emerging infectious diseases, and factors in the emergence or re-emergence of infectious diseases were discussed. Also, variables of infectious disease spread, and some protocols and guidelines to minimize the spread of infection within a population were highlighted. The paper gave overview information on roles of educational institutions in the control of emerging infectious diseases. Similarly, some essential elements of an educational institution health programme were discussed. In conclusion, it was suggested that Nigerian educational institutions should undertake health education programme on emerging infectious diseases to help students adopt healthy behaviours and lifestyle, eliminating or mitigating risk factors that influence spread of diseases, as well as promoting health and improving quality of life.