Today the province released some updated protocols and guidance for Manitoba school divisions, ahead of the return to classrooms on September 8.
One updated measure is regarding the use of masks in schools — as the province now “strongly recommends” students in grades 5 to 12, and school staff wear non-medical masks in common areas where 2 metres of distance can not be maintained.
Although mask-wearing within the school remains only a recommendation at this time, the province will be mandating non-medical masks be worn on school busses for students grade 5 and above, including bus drivers.
Education Minister Kelvin Goertzen says the province will supply masks to school divisions for students and staff, along with other personal protective equipment.
COVID-19 Cases Occurring In The School
The province has also outlined a protocol in the event a COVID-19 case occurs within a school. Public health will work closely with school administrators to identify close contacts, and advise them to self-isolate.
Areas where an exposure takes place in a school will be cleaned and disinfected, and those areas will not be used until it’s determined safe to do so.
School communities will be notified when a student at their school is a confirmed case, once close contacts have been identified.
Dr. Roussin notes the closure of a school would be a last resort and only with evidence of transmission among multiple groups of students or staff.
Going Forward
School divisions are set to post their individual plans during the week of August 17.
