Mexico schools re-open after year and half closure

Thousands of Mexican schools opened their doors on Monday after a year-and-a-half of closure.

The new school year begins at a time when Mexico is amid its third wave of COVID-19 infections and has recorded more than 380,000 COVID-19 confirmed deaths. About 64% of its adult population has received at least one dose of vaccine, but very few children are vaccinated. public health expert said the return to classes doesn't necessarily mean a greater risk for the kids who return to school or for the community.

But they have to follow basic hygiene, vigilance and ventilation conditions and be prepared to constantly make adjustments if necessary, according to UNICEF and the Pan American Health Organization. UNICEF regional advisor warned that the pandemic will sharpen the learning crisis in the region "with long-term consequences on the development of an entire generation of students."