The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has updated its guidance for fully vaccinated individuals, based on new evidence regarding the COVID-19 Delta variant. The CDC recommends universal indoor masking for all teachers, staff, students and visitors, regardless of vaccination status. The CDC also recommends universal masking indoors in areas with high COVID-19 transmission rates. According to the CDC, this includes St. Louis County.

• CDC Guidance for Wearing Masks

As we continue to monitor COVID-19 cases in our community, please be aware of the purpose of face coverings and how to properly wear them.

Wear your Face Covering Correctly

• Wash your hands before putting on your face covering
• Put it over your nose and mouth and secure it under your chin
• Try to fit it snugly against the sides of your face
• Make sure you can breathe easily

Take Off Your Cloth Face Covering Carefully, When You’re Home

• Untie the strings behind your head or stretch the ear loops
• Handle only by the ear loops or ties
• Fold outside corners together
• Place covering in the washing machine or hand wash
• Be careful not to touch your eyes, nose, and mouth when removing and wash hands immediately after removing.

Wear a Face Covering to Protect Others

• Wear a face covering that covers your nose and mouth to help protect others in case you’re infected with COVID-19 but don’t have symptoms
• Wear a face covering in public settings when around people who don’t live in your household, especially when it may be difficult for you to stay six feet apart
• Wear a face covering correctly for maximum protection
• Don’t put the face covering around your neck or up on your forehead
• Don’t touch the face covering, and, if you do, wash your hands or use hand sanitizer to disinfect

As a reminder, cloth face coverings should be washed after each use. It is important to always remove face coverings correctly and wash your hands after handling or touching a used face covering.