Continue Wearing Masks, Social Distancing In Schools: MDHHS

LANSING, MI — Michigan health officials on Friday released recommendations for schools on how to prevent the spread of the coronavirus, including the continued use of masks and vaccinations.

The Michigan Department of Health and Human Services said it was releasing the recommendations to help schools prepare for the return of people to indoor settings in the fall.

Below are the strategies recommended by the state:

Vaccinate Eligible Staff and Students

Health officials said vaccinating staff and students will help prevent the spread of the coronavirus.

Currently, 56 percent of Michiganders age 12 and older have received at least one dose of the COVID-19 vaccine, according to Dr. Joneigh Khaldun, Michigan's 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," she said. "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.”

Continued Use of Masks

The state said correctly and consistently using well-fitted masks that cover the nose and mouth also can help prevent the spread of the coronavirus. It also recommended people follow CDC guidelines for wearing masks.

Social Distancing

Physical distancing, including grouping children together to reduce potential exposures, also can help prevent COVID-19 spread, officials said.

COVID-19 Testing, Contact Tracing

Officials said in their announcement Friday that encouraging students and staff to stay home if sick or having any symptoms of the coronavirus also could help prevent the spread of the virus.

Additionally, encouraging them to be tested if they have symptoms or if they are not fully vaccinated could help detect COVID-positive people before they spread the virus to others.

Schools also can implement contact tracing and quarantine procedures while working with their local health departments as another safety measure, officials said.

Maintaining Safe, Healthy Environments

Simple acts such as promoting handwashing and covering coughs and sneezes can help prevent the spread of the coronavirus, health officials said.

Routine cleaning also can help maintain health facilities, according to the state.

Avoiding crowded or poorly ventilated indoor areas and activities or holding outdoor activities also can help, officials said.