With the first week of school set for Aug. 7, the state Department of Health released new COVID-19 guidelines to keep keiki and staff safe throughout the year.
With the first week of school set for Aug. 7, the state Department of Health released new COVID-19 guidelines to keep keiki and staff safe throughout the year.
The guidelines focus on how to reduce the spread of COVID-19 and when to isolate at home.
While the recommendations are similar to previous years, an emphasis is being placed on sending symptomatic students and staff home immediately.
To reduce the overall spread, the DOH recommends improving ventilation via opening windows and using fans in classrooms when available, staying home when sick, wearing a mask when COVID-19 community levels are medium or high, and washing hands often and thoroughly.
The DOH also recommends wearing a mask indoors for 10 days during medium and high community levels, watching for symptoms daily, and testing at least five days after any potential exposure.
Isolation is recommended for those with COVID-19 symptoms or who test positive for at least five days after symptoms first appear.
They also are encouraged to wait at least 24 hours after the last fever before returning to school.
The DOH recommends wearing a well-fitting mask indoors for five full days following infection.
Staying up to date on vaccinations also is recommended for both staff and students.
The full list of the recommendations from the DOH can be viewed at https://tinyurl.com/3f8t8u5p.
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