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Coronavirus

As of August 7, 2024, the CDC has updated its guidance for preventing the spread of infections, including COVID-19, in K-12 schools and early care and education programs. 

Key Recommendations:

  • No General Quarantine: Quarantine is no longer recommended for those exposed to COVID-19 in school settings unless they are in high-risk congregate settings like correctional facilities or nursing homes.
     
  • Stay Home When Sick: Students and staff should stay home when they are ill and follow CDC guidance regarding isolation if they test positive for COVID-19.
     
  • Layered Prevention Strategies: Schools should employ various strategies to minimize the spread of infections, including:
    • Promoting Vaccinations: Encourage up-to-date vaccinations for students and staff, as it's the primary way to prevent severe COVID-19 illness.
    • Improving Ventilation: Take steps for cleaner air by improving airflow and considering ventilation enhancements, especially in spaces with limited ventilation.
    • Handwashing and Respiratory Etiquette: Teach and reinforce proper handwashing and covering coughs and sneezes.
    • Cleaning and Disinfecting: Routinely clean and disinfect surfaces and objects.
       
  • Masking is Optional: Masks are optional in schools, but individuals may choose to wear them for added protection, especially in areas with high community transmission or if they or household members are at high risk.
     
  • Manage Cases and Exposures:
    • Individuals with COVID-19 symptoms or a positive test should isolate and wear a well-fitting mask for 10 days, or follow a test-based strategy to shorten the mask duration.
    • Those exposed to COVID-19 should wear a high-quality mask for 10 days and get tested on day five after exposure.
       
  • Respond to Outbreaks: If an outbreak occurs, schools should consider implementing additional strategies, such as increasing ventilation, masking, screening testing, and working with local health departments.
     
  • Flexibility and Local Context: School administrators can tailor their approaches based on local conditions, balancing infection control with the benefits of in-person learning.
     
  • Support for Vulnerable Individuals: Schools should ensure reasonable modifications and accommodations for students with immunocompromising conditions or other risk factors for severe illness. 

In summary, the CDC guidance emphasizes a move away from mandatory quarantine and universal masking while promoting vaccination and layered prevention strategies to keep schools safe and open for in-person learning in Texas. 

You can learn more from the Center of Disease Control about COVID-19 here.