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639 Operating Schools During COVID-19: CDC Guidelines
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639 Operating Schools During COVID-19: CDC Guidelines

Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)

Masks

CDC recommends people wear masks in public settings and when around people who don't live in the same household, especially when other social distancing measures are difficult to maintain.

  • Appropriate and consistent use of masks is most important when students, teachers, and staff are indoors and when social distancing is difficult to implement or maintain.
Infographic showing how a mask provides a barrier
CDC recommends people wear masks in public settings and when around people who don't live in the same household.
  • Individuals should be frequently reminded not to touch the face covering or mask and to wash their hands or use hand sanitizer frequently.
  • Information should be provided to staff, students, and students' families on proper use, removal, and washing of masks.
  • People who are hearing-impaired, or care for others who are hearing-impaired, may be unable to wear masks if they rely on lipreading to communicate. To improve communication if a mask blocks your lips, communicate in writing, and decrease background noise.
  • In addition to those who interact with people who are deaf or hard of hearing, the following groups of teachers and staff may also consider using clear masks:
    • teachers of young students (e.g., teaching young students to read)
    • teachers of students who are English language learners
    • teachers of students with disabilities

Face Shields

The CDC does not recommend using face shields for normal everyday activities or as a substitute for masks. They should only be used if standard masks are not available. There is a lack of evidence that face shields effectively control the spread of the virus from the source. Here are some considerations for individuals who must wear a face shield instead of a mask:

  • Face shield wearers should wash their hands before and after removing the face shield and avoid touching their eyes, nose, and mouth when removing it.
  • Disposable face shields should be single-use and disposed of according to manufacturer instructions.
  • Reusable face shields should be cleaned and disinfected after each use according to manufacturer instructions or by following CDC face shield cleaning instructions.
  • Plastic face shields for newborns and infants are NOT recommended.

Knowledge Check Choose the best answer for the question.

2-7. When may face shields be used to help control the spread of COVID-19?

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