CLEVELAND, Ohio – Schools should consider delaying class about a week after the holidays to prevent the spread of the coronavirus, Ohio Gov. Mike DeWine told the state’s coronavirus briefing. Wednesday.
The recommendation comes from conversations with medical professionals, DeWine said. Delaying this return would allow a “new beginning” of any coronavirus spread from the holidays. After exposure to the coronavirus, the virus takes a few days to incubate and begin symptoms.
“It’s a fantastic way to create a buffer,” said Ohio’s chief medical officer, Dr. Bruce Vanderhoff, during the briefing.
About 45 percent of Ohio public school students are totally away, DeWine said, and about 71 percent are not fully schooled. Many districts pivoted toward remote learning during the period between Thanksgiving and Winter Holidays, to stop any holiday stays or to account for community outreach or staff shortages.
DeWine announced Wednesday that schools are part of the priority groups for the next round of the coronavirus vaccine. Any school where officials want to return in person can receive adult shots in the building, including teachers, bus drivers and cafeteria workers.