Faced with the rebound of the Covid-19 epidemic, will the mask at school be compulsory again? Knowing that it is highly recommended in transport and enclosed spaces, the Minister of Education, Pap Ndiaye, answered the question this Friday on France Info.
the mask at school is once again the center of attention. As a ninth wave of Covid-19 is underway and progressing day by day, alongside winter viruses such as the flu, there is the question of children wearing masks. In view of the resumption of the Covid epidemic in recent weeks, the government recently recommended that the French put the mask back on in transport, in closed places and in contact with fragile people. But what about school? Invited this Friday, December 9 on France Info, the Minister of Education, Pap Ndiaye explained that for the moment “it is a recommendation in confined spaces, not an obligation”. On the other hand, he gave more details if the health protocol was to change for the schools.
Mask at school “For the moment, it is a recommendation in enclosed spaces, not an obligation, indicates the Minister of National Education. If we change the level of protocol, we will warn 10 days in advance, in close connection with the health authorities” pic.twitter.com/VbKah5V8NA
— franceinfo (@franceinfo) December 9, 2022
Wearing a mask at school soon to be compulsory?
For the time being, the mask at school is not compulsory. The government has made no such announcement. Minister Pap Ndiaye nevertheless reminded our colleagues that “if we change the level of protocol, we will warn 10 days in advance, in close collaboration with the health authorities.” Indeed, the protocol provides for other graduations and measures to be adapted according to the intensity of the epidemic. If this ninth wave continues to gain momentum, the protocol could evolve. From level 1, wearing a mask is required, in accordance with the guidelines established for the general population.
What type of mask to wear at school?
If required, students must wear a surgical type mask. This mask is recommended in particular because it is a medical device that meets certain standards. As a result, its bacterial filtration efficiency is ensured.
What does the health protocol say at school?
Since the start of the school year in September, the protocol in force has been at the so-called “base” level, namely the lowest. Students are not currently required to wear a mask. This level indeed plans to follow the measures enacted by the Ministry of Health, and without an official announcement on this side, the students are therefore exempt from masks.
On the other hand, those who want it or have to can wear it as part of an individual approach. For some, especially adults, it has even become a reflex in some places. To note that if your child is contact caseit is still strongly recommended to put a mask on your child for 7 days.