As the new school year approaches, the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) has released updated guidance recommending that all individuals over the age of two, including both students and staff, wear masks in schools, regardless of their vaccination status. This recommendation comes at a time when COVID-19 cases are on the rise across the United States, as reported by Johns Hopkins University. With children still ineligible for vaccination, the AAP emphasizes the importance of safety measures to prevent severe illness and hospitalization.
In their interim guidance for the 2021-2022 school year, the AAP supports in-person learning while strongly advising that masks be worn by all students and school personnel, unless specific medical or developmental conditions prevent them from doing so. This stance is more stringent than the recent guidelines from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), which permit vaccinated students to attend school without masks.
According to the AAP, “Given the current state of the pandemic and the availability of effective vaccines for those aged 12 and older, the advantages of in-person schooling outweigh the risks.” The organization believes that universal mask-wearing simplifies enforcement compared to a policy based on vaccination status, which may be challenging for schools to implement. Additionally, masks provide protection against other respiratory illnesses, enhancing safety for the entire school community.
Dr. Maria Johnson, chair of the AAP Council on School Health Executive Committee, stated, “With a significant number of students still not eligible for vaccination and the emergence of highly contagious COVID variants, we urge everyone in schools to wear masks indoors.” Dr. Lisa Carter, chair-elect of the committee, added, “Many children cannot receive vaccinations, making it crucial to utilize every tool to protect them from COVID-19. Universal masking is one of the most effective strategies, ensuring consistent expectations among students without the burden of monitoring vaccination status.”
Dr. Anthony Garcia, a leading health official, supports the AAP’s recommendations, recognizing the organization’s careful analysis of the situation. Both the AAP and CDC agree that in-person education is essential for students, despite the ongoing pandemic. The AAP guidance highlights the negative effects of remote learning on educational equity, mental health, and overall student well-being, asserting that “the benefits of in-person schooling outweigh the risks in nearly all situations.”
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In summary, the AAP’s new guidelines advocate for universal mask-wearing in schools for everyone over two years old, prioritizing safety as COVID-19 cases rise. The emphasis on in-person education reflects a commitment to student well-being, while also addressing the challenges posed by the pandemic.