OU Pediatric Specialist Recommends Students Wear Masks In School

A pediatric specialist for OU Health said a rise in COVID-19 cases and the threat of the new delta variant are some reasons why students should wear masks to start the upcoming school year.

In this week’s Healthier Oklahoma Coalition, Dr. Donna Tyungu said she agreed with the recommendation with the American Academy of Pediatrics for students and teachers to wear a mask when students return to school. Dr. Tyungu also said schools should take steps similar to those taken last year to help limit the spread of the virus.

With the COVID-19 vaccine available only to people 12 years and older right now, Dr. Tyungu said unvaccinated children remain a big concern. She said even students who have been vaccinated should still wear a mask because of the threat of breakthrough infections.

Dr. Tyungu also said students should be in classroom settings instead of learning through technology.

“I think we can all agree on the importance of school and we need our children in school, not learning by computers,” said Dr. Tyungu. “The best and safest way to do that is to make sure that we don’t spread this potentially deadly disease throughout the schools.”

President Biden said this week, he expects the FDA to grant full authorization to the vaccine this fall. OU Chief COVID Officer Dr. Dale Bratzler is expected to discuss the delta variant and children later on Thursday.