Michigan Health Dept. Issues New COVID-19 Guidelines for the Upcoming School Year

The Michigan Department of Health and Human Services has issued new guidelines in order to help prevent the spread of COVID-19 during the upcoming school year.

Several SE Michigan Counties at 'Substantial' Risk for COVID-19

The latest guidelines for parents and students have been updated to reflect recent changes made by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, as masking recommendations have changed due to the rapid spread of the delta variant.

"We are committed to ensuring Michigan students and educators are safe in the classroom, including those who may not yet be vaccinated,” said Dr. Joneigh Khaldun, in a press release. “MDHHS is issuing this guidance to help protect Michiganders of all ages."

Khaldun went on to encourage all Michiganders who are eligible for the COVID-19 vaccine to get the shot if they have not already done so.

The MDHHS and the CDC recommend layering multiple strategies in order to mitigate the spread of the virus.

1. Vaccines:  Vaccinations are recommended for all students and staff members who are eligible to get the shot.
2. Masks:  Although masks are not required, the CDC is recommending universal indoor mask wearing for educators, staff, students, and visitors inside school buildings, regardless of vaccination status. Masks are required on all modes of public transportation, including school buses.
3. Physical Distancing:  The CDC is once again recommending that students and staff members maintain at least three feet of physical distance while indoors.

Although mask requirements have not been reinstated in Michigan, more than 30 Michigan counties are at a substantial or high risk of infection. At the time of this writing, residents of Genesee County are considered to be at only a 'moderate' risk.