COVID-19: Recommendations for School Reopening

Date: 
Thursday, June 18, 2020
Summary: 

Non-medical masks may reduce transmission from individuals who are shedding the virus. However, the extent of this benefit is unknown (especially in children) and would only be potentially beneficial if done properly. In fact, if worn incorrectly, it could lead to increased risk of infection and it is not practical for a child to wear a mask properly for the duration of a school day. It is noteworthy that several European countries have had children successfully return to school without face masks.

Guidance statement(s): • Non-medical and medical face masks are not required or recommended for children returning to school.

The following points were considered in this recommendation: • There is a lack of evidence that wearing a face mask prevents SARS-CoV-2 transmission in children.However, the extent of this benefit is unknown (especially in children) and would only be potentially beneficial if done properly. In fact, if worn incorrectly, it could lead to increased risk of infection and it is not practical for a child to wear a mask properly for the duration of a school day. It is noteworthy that several European countries have had children successfully return to school without face masks.