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AAP recommends masks in schools for everyone 2 and older, regardless of vaccination status

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The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) recommends masks in schools for everyone over the age of two, regardless of vaccination status.

A statement reads, “AAP recommends universal masking because a significant portion of the student population is not yet eligible for vaccines, and masking is proven to reduce transmission of the virus and to protect those who are not vaccinated.” They continued, “Many schools will not have a system to monitor vaccine status of students, teachers, and staff, and some communities overall have low vaccination uptake where the virus may be circulating more prominently.”

AAP’s recommendations contradict recent CDC guidelines, suggesting vaccinated students and teachers do not need to wear masks indoors. Earlier this month, FBA reported, “‘CDC recommends schools maintain at least 3 feet of physical distance between students within classrooms, combined with indoor mask-wearing by people who are not fully vaccinated, to reduce transmission risk.’”

In the statement, AAP expressed support for the CDC guidelines minus not mandating masks. Dr. Sara Bode, chair-elect of the AAP Council on School Health Executive Committee said, “Universal masking is one of those tools, and has been proven effective in protecting people against other respiratory diseases, as well. It’s also the most effective strategy to create consistent messages and expectations among students without the added burden of needing to monitor everyone’s vaccination status.”

ARTICLE: ANTOINETTE AHO

MANAGING EDITOR: CARSON CHOATE
PHOTO CREDITS: MARKET WATCH

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Antoinette Aho

Antoinette is a community college student in Sacramento, California. She is a Politics Editor at Fact Based America, a correspondent for Campus Reform, and a student journalist. She previously worked for Turning Point USA as a High School Coordinator.

Antoinette is a community college student in Sacramento, California. She is a Politics Editor at Fact Based America, a correspondent for Campus Reform, and a student journalist. She previously worked for Turning Point USA as a High School Coordinator.

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