When the coronavirus pandemic hit, schools closed around the country in an effort to slow community spread of the disease. A new study, though, concludes that schools do not seem to be superspreader sites where infection spreads rapidly and dramatically. Based on data from Texas, it appears that schools tend to reflect community infection rates. While anxiety remains high among some about the potential for COVID-19 to spread in schools, evidence suggests that when the virus does enter a school, it can usually be contained if public health recommendations are being followed. Listen to the author explain the implications of her study and then debate: Should school buildings be open?
Story Length: 6:33
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October 8, 2020
5:58
A recent outbreak of coronavirus infections at the White House is highlighting how superspreading events can quickly infect large numbers of people. People with COVID-19 are most infectious before they show symptoms and can unknowingly spread illness to others. The virus continues to spread in this way, creating a cluster of infections. Health experts say superspreader events are typically indoor gatherings where people are not following safety guidelines. Listen to a professor explain how COVID-19 clusters arise and how to avoid future outbreaks.
This audio story was recorded in early October. The news about COVID-19 is changing rapidly and parts of this story may be dated.
Read MoreJuly 22, 2020
6:47
School leaders across the country are grappling with questions of when and how to reopen schools safely. While there is a shared interest nationwide in kids returning to school buildings, the virus is still widespread in communities across the country. Although kids are less likely to suffer from COVID-19, they may carry the germ back to their families and communities. The CDC’s safety recommendations are challenging for many schools to follow without additional space, staff, and supplies. Listen to school leaders throughout the U.S. discuss their hopes, priorities, and fears as they decide what school will look like in the fall.
Read MoreMay 4, 2020
3:28
After months of closures due to COVID-19, school officials across the country are considering how schools can be reopened safely. Experts say that social distancing is the key to preventing the spread of disease, although that is especially challenging in crowded classrooms. Other countries have found ways to limit student contact through smaller class sizes, fewer students on the playground, and other strategies that could inform U.S. actions. Listen to hear how the school experience may change in the fall, and learn about some creative strategies for interacting safely.
Read MoreMarch 17, 2020
3:18
Leaders in over 30 states have closed schools statewide to help contain the spread of COVID-19, the disease caused by the novel coronavirus. Millions of students will be home, and parents and guardians are scrambling to find child care. Children from low-income families who rely on free or reduced-price lunches, and parents who are unable to stay home from work, will face particular challenges. Listen to learn why schools are closing for long periods of time and what politicians are doing to help people affected by the virus.
This audio story was recorded in mid-March. The news about COVID-19 is changing rapidly and parts of this story may be dated.
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