HUNTSVILLE, Ala. — The CDC has eased restrictions on social distancing at school from six feet to three feet. Our WZDX News reporter hears from doctors and public health officials on the new measure.
Huntsville Hospital Infectious Disease Specialist Dr. Ali Hassoun says the three-feet social distancing applies to students in elementary school. However, there are some exceptions.
"They're talking about reducing from 6 to three in certain settings, not everywhere...Everybody should wear masks, and follow the other prevention guidelines. In addition they're talking about the three feet between the students. The six feet need be maintained between the teachers, the staff, and the students," says Hassoun.
However, the three-feet rule is different for middle and high schoolers. Those students have to be in smaller groups.
"Like we say cohort them, or get a bubble of five or six. The three feet apart should be okay, but again need to follow the prevention guideline of the masking," says Hassoun.
Hassoun says transmission among kids ages twelve and younger are less. However, Hassoun believes the three-feet rule only works under certain circumstances.
"In my honest opinion if it's a widespread infection, I don't think it's a good idea. I think it's going to need to be virtual," says Hassoun.
However, the CDC says the three feet rule can still apply in high widespread communities only in elementary schools. The Alabama Department of Public Health says talks are in the works to incorporate the CDC's new guidelines.
"Now in Alabama, since we just received the official notice of this, this morning we will want to discuss this with our education partners and other persons that would be involved in implementing this, prior to making this an official change in our guidelines," says Asst. State Health Officer Dr. Karen Landers.