CDC updates coronavirus guidance for child care providers

The big picture: According to the guidance, anyone aged 2 years and older should wear a mask when around people who do not live in the same household, except when eating or sleeping.

• "Masks should still be worn in addition to physical distancing," the CDC emphasized.
• Child care staff should also "teach and reinforce the consistent and correct use of masks for all staff and children aged 2 years and older."
• The guidance notes that "even after child care providers and staff are vaccinated, there will be a need to continue prevention measures for the foreseeable future including wearing masks, physical distancing, and other important prevention strategies outlined in this guidance document."

What they're saying: "Early last year, CDC released initial guidance for childcare programs during COVID-19. As we learn more about the virus, CDC experts updated that guidance several times throughout 2020," CDC director Rochelle Walensky said during a White House briefing on Friday.

• "Today, CDC is again releasing updated guidance based on the most recent science," Walensky added.
• "That science includes additional evidence showing that, when used consistently and correctly, prevention strategies such as mask-wearing, staying home when sick, and good hand hygiene can allow childcare programs to operate safely and reduce the spread of COVID-19."
• Walensky also encouraged all child care workers to get vaccinated.