Supporting schools in creating a safe space for learning is a top priority. Below is updated guidance pertaining to COVID-19 in K-12 schools.
Updated August 23, 2022
What does the CDC currently recommend for K-12 and Early Childhood Education Settings?
Read the CDC's updated operational guidance for K-12 and early childhood providers here.
What are Community Levels?
COVID-19 Community Levels are a new tool to help communities decide what prevention steps to take based on the latest data. Levels can be low, medium, or high and are determined by looking at hospital beds being used, hospital admissions, and the total number of new COVID-19 cases in an area. Take precautions to protect yourself and others from COVID-19 based on the COVID-19 Community Level in your area. (CDC 3/2022).
The current Community Level of Pima County can be viewed on the CDC's COVID-19 by County page.
What are the current guidelines for children and masking?
Universal mask wearing for children 2 and older is encouraged in school when physical distancing cannot be maintained.
To learn more about masking guidance, please visit the following resources:
ADHS - Schools (K-12) & Childcare - Guidance (azdhs.gov)
ADHS - Everyone - Masks and Respirators (azdhs.gov)
What is the current mitigation guidance for schools?
For current guidance for preventing the spread of COVID-19 in schools, see this CDC page.
What are symptoms of COVID-19?
People with COVID-19 have had a wide range of symptoms reported – ranging from mild symptoms to severe illness. Symptoms may appear 2-14 days after exposure to the virus. Anyone can have mild to severe symptoms. People with these symptoms may have COVID-19:
- Fever or chills
- Cough
- Shortness of breath or difficulty breathing
- Fatigue
- Muscle or body aches
- Headache
- New loss of taste or smell
- Sore throat
- Congestion or runny nose
- Nausea or vomiting
- Diarrhea
This list does not include all possible symptoms. Older adults and people who have severe underlying medical conditions like heart or lung disease or diabetes seem to be at higher risk for developing more serious complications from COVID-19 illness.
What are the steps for a student or individual who tests positive for COVID-19?
Isolate for 5 days. The complete steps for what to do if someone tests positive for COVID-19 can be found here. For more information on isolation in K-12 schools please visit the CDC page here.
What are the current Isolation and Quarantine guidelines?
On 8/11/2022 the CDC issued updated guidance pertaining to quarantine of individuals who may have been exposed to a person who has COVID-19.
If an individual was exposed to COVID-19, they should wear a well-fitting mask for 10 full days following the day of exposure while monitoring for symptoms. Test on day six or, if symptoms develop at any time, isolate immediately and get tested. More information for individuals who have possibly been exposed can be found here.
Individuals who tested positive for COVID-19 should isolate for 5 days and wear a mask for 10 full days. More information about isolation can be found here.
Where can I get tested for COVID-19?
Information about COVID-19 testing, including a list of free testing centers in Pima County, can be found here.
Do home tests need to be reported?
Yes! Home tests should always be reported. For more information on home tests, click here.
Where are the current Pima County vaccination sites?
Information about vaccines and a list of locations and vaccine events can be found here.
If you are participating in a vaccination event at your school, families may be asked to complete a consent form prior to a student receiving a vaccine.
What is Test to Treat?
The Test to Treat program provides testing and access to treatment for COVID 19. If individuals meet eligibility requirements, they will immediately receive a prescription for free antiviral pills against COVID-19. There is no cost for this and there is no insurance required. Individuals who already have a positive test (from an at-home test or a testing site) can walk into the clinic for an evaluation for COVID-19 treatment.