Students can’t wear face shields in place of masks in Ohio schools

Students across America are adjusting to new routines during the back-to-school season, with many returning to in-person classes in different districts.

For those who are learning in classroom settings, masks have often been encouraged and in some cases required amid the coronavirus pandemic.

In Ohio, all students and staff at K-12 schools are required to wear facial coverings at all times while on school premises.

Only students with special conditions are exempt from the mandate, and students are allowed to remove face coverings while eating or playing during recess.

A news release Friday by the Ohio Department of Health notes that students are not allowed to use face shields as a substitute for face coverings and masks.

Citing the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the Department of Health noted that the level of protection provided by face shields is unknown at this time. The agency said there is not sufficient evidence that shows the effectiveness of face shields in controlling the spray of respiratory droplets onto surfaces and from person to person.

Ohio’s K-12 facial covering order requires facial coverings that cover the nose, mouth and chin.

According to the CDC and other health agencies, there is substantial evidence that face coverings slow the spread of COVID-19.

See the original story at WHIO.com and read more about face coverings in school settings here.

Cox Media Group