We’re officially in August, which means going back to school is right around the corner. For many, this means returning to an in-person classroom for the first time since March 2020. Because we are still in a time of uncertainty surrounding our health, it’s important to take certain precautions to keep yourself and those around you safe as you return to school.
Get Up to Date on your Recommended Vaccines
August is National Immunization Awareness Month, highlighting the importance of vaccinations for people of all ages. As we prepare to return to the classroom, be sure you and your loved ones have received all appropriate vaccines. Check in with your doctor before it’s time for school. For more information click here.
Get a COVID-19 Vaccine if You are Eligible
All adults and children over age 12 currently eligible, should get fully immunized by the start of the school year. According to the CDC, people are considered fully vaccinated 2 weeks after their second dose of a 2-dose vaccine such as Pfizer or Moderna, or 2 weeks after a single-dose vaccine such as Johnson & Johnson’s. Search vaccines.gov, text your ZIP code to 438829, or call 1-800-232-0233 to find locations near you.
Wear a Face Mask
The CDC has recommended that all students in kindergarten through 12th grade should wear masks when they return to classrooms for the new school year. Even those that are fully vaccinated should wear a mask while indoors as this lowers the transmission rate of COVID-19. If you need help picking a mask that’s right for you click here.
Practice Physical Distancing
Although the CDC recommends people who are not fully vaccinated maintain a physical distance of at least 6 feet from people who are not part of their household, healthychildren.org recommends students should remain at least 3 feet apart within classrooms when possible. Several studies from the 2020-2021 school year show low COVID-19 transmission levels among students in schools that had less than 6 feet of physical distance when the school used other prevention strategies, such as masks[1].
How AFSPA Can Help
FSBP has added a new wellness incentive to our current wellness program, Simple Steps to Living Well Together Program. FSBP members, aged 18 years and older, who received the COVID-19 vaccine during 2021 – whether prior to or following the mid-year announcement of the new wellness incentive – are eligible to earn a $25 wellness incentive. For more information click here.
[1] https://www.healthychildren.org/English/health-issues/conditions/COVID-19/Pages/Return-to-School-During-COVID-19.aspx
