Ohio eases COVID quarantine rules for schools

Starting this week, Ohio students no longer have to quarantine after being exposed to COVID-19 at school, as long as they agree to wear a mask at school for the next 14 days and have no symptoms.

• If they test negative once on day 5, 6 or 7, they can unmask.

Why it matters: Families and school leaders have expressed concerns about students missing too much class time in isolation, especially if they aren't infected.

• The previous 14-day maximum quarantine is about 6% of a 180-day school year.

What's next: Schools can choose to adopt the new rules or continue requiring quarantines.

• Previously, the exception only applied to vaccinated or masked children.
• Meanwhile, students can continue extracurricular activities if they test negative as soon as they're notified of exposure and again 5-7 days later. They must wear a mask "when able."