At around 700, the incidence rate is currently especially high in primary schools.

The head of the National Health Directorate, Dr Jean-Claude Schmit, and Minister of Education Claude Meisch spoke to the MPs of the Parliamentary Health Commission on Tuesday to discuss the Covid-19 measures in schools.

MP Martine Hansen from the Christian Social People's Party (CSV) stated that while she welcomed the current strategy, she regrets the Minister's hesitance when it comes to air filters. Meanwhile, Hansen thinks that the more rigorous testing strategy, which has been implemented for the past week, should be retained, particularly in primary schools.

In this context, Hansen pointed out that once the new Covid-19 law comes into force, rapid tests will only be valid for 24 hours. Against the backdrop of the emerging Omicron variant, a reinforced testing strategy would be important, according to the CSV MP.

Hansen is also in favour of deploying the mobile teams that carried out PCR tests once more. Alternatively, it would have to be ensured that anyone can quickly get an appointment for a PCR test anywhere in the country, the CSV MP stressed, pointing out that this is currently not the case. Even those who were in contact with a positive case and have been prescribed a test by a doctor struggle to get appointments quickly, Hansen criticised. These people in particular must be able to get tested quickly, instead of having to wait several days, according to Hansen.

The spread of the Omicron variant in Luxembourg must now be closely monitored, Hansen went on to say, and if necessary, the government must be prepared to take new measures, such as adapting the quarantine system, "immediately", perhaps even during the Christmas holidays.

Mars di Bartolomeo, MP for the Luxembourg Socialist Workers' Party (LSAP) and President of the Parliamentary Health Commission, stated the presentation by the Minister indicated that the peak of new infections in schools may have been reached. The incidence rate is lower in secondary schools compared to primary schools.

Regardless of whether vaccinations can be carried out or not, Bartolomeo stressed that vaccines "are not the only protection against the virus". Thus, the LSAP MP is in favour of retaining the basic protective measures.

The new Covid-19 law will not bring any major changes for the educational sector. According to Bartolomeo, the measures of the current Covid-19 law are expected to remain in force until the latter expires on 18 December.