LANSING, MI (WKZO AM/FM) – Even though it isn’t a mandate, the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS) Friday released their new recommendations for schools this fall, which includes wearing a mask to help those who aren’t fully vaccinated.
In a news release, the MDHHS said all their recommended strategies “provide some level of protection, and layered strategies implemented at the same time provide the greatest level of protection.”
According to the health agency, those strategies include promoting COVID-19 vaccination for eligible staff and students, correctly and consistently using well-fitted masks that cover the nose and mouth in school settings, providing social distancing, including cohorting children together to reduce potential exposures.
It is also encouraging students and staff to get tested for COVID-19 if having symptoms or if they are not fully vaccinated and are a close contact of someone who has COVID-19.
“I am pleased with the progress of our vaccination efforts in Michigan, with 56% of Michiganders age 12 and older having received at least their first dose of the safe and effective COVID-19 vaccine,” said Dr. Joneigh Khaldun, chief medical executive and chief deputy for health at MDHHS. “These vaccines are the reason transmission of the virus in Michigan is at the lowest point in a year. However, as the school environment brings together large groups of individuals who may not yet be vaccinated, MDHHS is issuing this guidance to help protect Michiganders of all ages.”
