One of the metrics the state is looking at in making a decision whether to end mask requirements in schools is vaccination rates. About 37% of 5-to 11-year-olds had one dose of the vaccine and 29% were fully vaccinated by Sunday, according to the state Health Department. For 12- to 17-year-olds, 76% have had one shot, and 68% were fully vaccinated.
Gov. Kathy Hochul said Monday she will make an announcement Wednesday on the future of New York's mask and vaccine mandates that have been in place since December.
"Gov. Hochul and the Department of Health remain committed to doing everything possible to keep children, teachers and staff safe, and our schools open," a Hochul spokesman said Saturday.
Western New York’s Covid-19 case count, which shot above 3,500 in mid-January, has plunged below 800. Hospitalizations are falling, too. Is it possible that soon masks may no longer be part of our daily existence?
The agreement allows the 10-year-old boy to return to school Feb. 7 wearing a face shield. He will be provided bus transportation and will attend all classes with various safety protocols.
"Your recognition of the need to move schools from the emergency phase of Covid-19 to a time when the presence of the virus no longer completely disrupts the school experience is both refreshing and essential," states a letter signed by 38 school superintendents in Erie and Niagara counties.
One of the metrics the state is looking at in making a decision whether to end mask requirements in schools is vaccination rates. About 37% of 5-to 11-year-olds had one dose of the vaccine and 29% were fully vaccinated by Sunday, according to the state Health Department. For 12- to 17-year-olds, 76% have had one shot, and 68% were fully vaccinated.
