Despite a surge in COVID-19 cases across Ohio, Governor Mike DeWine has chosen to disregard CDC recommendations regarding quarantine protocols for schools. He revealed that the state will no longer require students and teachers exposed to a COVID-positive individual in school settings to quarantine.
This decision stems from an independent assessment, which has not undergone peer review, suggesting that as long as students wear masks and the exposure occurs within the classroom, there is “no need” for quarantining.
As of Wednesday, Ohio’s active COVID case count is approaching 800,000. Given the extensive community spread, many would expect a more cautious approach, especially in schools, where DeWine advocates for in-person learning regardless of vaccination status.
The World Health Organization has highlighted that COVID cases among children in school environments are often mild, asymptomatic, and underreported. This raises concerns about labeling schools as “safe zones,” given the lack of comprehensive data available to support such claims, particularly as other states grapple with significant outbreaks.
“This will help ensure that kids remain in the classroom, which is our primary goal,” DeWine stated regarding his decision on quarantine measures. Preliminary findings indicated “no significant difference” in the likelihood of contracting the virus between students in close contact with a COVID-positive person and those who were more distanced. This led the governor to conclude that classrooms are relatively “safe,” despite the uncertainty of students’ activities outside school grounds.
Similar actions have been taken by Oklahoma Governor Kevin Stitt, who announced that teachers and students exposed to COVID-19 in class will not need to quarantine as long as safety protocols are followed. Oklahoma is currently averaging 4,250 new cases daily.
DeWine faced criticism last week for conditional vaccine eligibility for Ohio teachers, stating they could receive the vaccine starting February 1, but only if they agree to teach in person beginning March 1. Critics argue this manipulates vaccination priorities and does not allow sufficient time for the vaccine to become effective. Additionally, the absence of vaccines for children raises further concerns.
Jonathan Moore, the superintendent of a school district in Warren County, expressed support for DeWine’s new quarantine guidelines, emphasizing the significant barriers that previous regulations imposed on schools. He noted that thousands of students have been quarantined, often repeatedly, as Warren County ranks sixth among Ohio counties for COVID spread.
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In summary, Governor DeWine’s announcement to eliminate quarantine requirements for students exposed to COVID-19 in schools has sparked significant discussion amid rising case numbers. His decision is based on an independent study and aims to prioritize in-person learning, despite criticisms about the implications for public health and safety.