Considerations for Changes in School Operational Status

Changes in school operational status (i.e. virtual, hybrid, closure) are not used as a routine infection prevention and control strategy and are made in coordination with local health authorities. Short term closures can allow for cleaning and disinfection, and not result in negative consequences (e.g., learning loss, mental health challenges). Longer-term COVID-19 pandemic related school closures have been examined to determine effectiveness on infection transmission. The findings have been mixed, and many other factors could have confounded the findings. Decisions to change school operational status are made at the local level and should be informed by severity of illness among child and adolescent populations, presence of outbreaks, and other local factors such as staffing, absenteeism, the need for cleaning and disinfection, and healthcare capacity.