I read with some concern your editorial ('Strange but true', Times Comment, May 1) describing Barnet Councils policy on SARS as bizarre to say the least'. It is very important that this should not give rise to unfounded worries among parents.

You questioned why teachers returning from SARS-affected areas have been quarantined' while children returning from those areas are required to go to school.

Readers may find it helpful if I clarify the position. The fact is that SARS is uncommon in children and young people. Children returning from SARS-affected areas are not normally a risk to others. Unless such a child is unwell or is known to have been in close contact with a known SARS patient, there is no reason for them not to attend school. We are not going to deny children their schooling unless there is a real reason for it.

On the other hand, parents would rightly expect us to protect their children from teachers who might be at risk. The risk in adults returning from SARS areas is greater. We therefore require that any members of school staff who have visited a SARS risk country should not return to work for ten days; they are fully paid throughout the ten days.

Equally and consistent with the higher risk among adults we are advising parents who have recently visited SARS risk countries not to enter the school grounds when collecting children for the following ten days after departure.

Clearly this is an issue which rightly concerns many parents. Our policy is designed to address the real risks but not to create unnecessary disruption.

Councillor Lynne Hillan

Cabinet member for children and education

Barnet Council

May 6, 2003 19:00