LOS ANGELES, May 17 (Xinhua) -- The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) on Friday released consolidated, evidence-based guidance for preventing the spread of infections in schools from kindergarten to the 12th grade.
The guidance includes everyday actions that schools can take to prevent and control the spread of respiratory and stomach viruses, such as influenza and norovirus, and bacterial illness, such as strep throat.
This guidance is designed to maximize school attendance and its benefits for all students, while preventing the spread of infectious diseases, according to the CDC.
The strategies in the new guidance include teaching and reinforcing proper hand washing and respiratory etiquette; taking steps for cleaner air by improving ventilation in schools; promoting vaccinations for students and staff; and suggesting schools to consider ventilation enhancements and design when undergoing remodeling or when undertaking new building construction to optimize clean air.
"CDC has updated actions schools can take to prevent germs from spreading and keep kids healthy and learning," said CDC Director Mandy Cohen. "This update puts lessons learned into actionable steps schools can follow to keep our kids, teachers, and school staff safe." ■
