The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has issued new guidance for reopening of U.S. schools. The agency recommends universal wearing of masks and physical distancing as important strategies to control COVID-19.

The guidelines also stress on facility cleaning, personal hygiene as well as contact tracing. CDC Director Rochelle Walensky stated that with the strategies suggested by the agency, there will be little to no transmission of COVID-19 in schools, if followed properly. The agency also recommended that priority should be given to teachers and school staff for COVID-19 vaccination.

U.S. President Joe Biden had also assured that most K-8 schools would be reopened within 100 days of his taking office on January 20. The President lauded the agency’s new guidance as he highlighted the problems faced by children due to school closure… (Reuters, February 12, 2021)