More than 8,000 pupils are missing out on their education as they self-isolate at home due to coronavirus, in just one UK city.
Along with 350 teachers in Liverpool, the youngsters have been sent home after six months of no school due to lockdown.
The situation in Merseyside is deteriorating rapidly, according to the latest figures.
Coronavirus infections in Liverpool are now doubling every six days, according to the Liverpool Echo.
Mayor Joe Anderson tweeted figures this afternoon as the city battles a surge in the virus.
The Mayor said a further 1,254 coronavirus infections were confirmed in the city this week, suggesting a further acceleration on figures announced by public health director Matt Ashton just yesterday.
Mayor Anderson tweeted: "New infections of COVID-19 in this last week in Liverpool is 1,254, this has increased the numbers infected to approx 5,000 it is doubling every six days.
"There are currently 8,000 school children at home self isolating and over 350 teachers & staff.
"Please stay safe and take care."
The growing number of staff isolating also raises the prospect of more schools having to shut completely, as staff numbers drop too low for them to operate.
Dr Richard Wenstone, a consultant intensivist at the Royal Liverpool Hospital and former Liverpool councillor, believes the government should shut pubs and restaurants to stem the strain on doctors.
Dr Wenstone told the Echo: "Winters are normally very busy, but you would not expect a normal winter to start in the middle of September.
"I think what we're seeing is a big resurgence in Covid patients. It's not as bad yet as it was in April, which was particularly bad."
