The American Academy of Pediatrics recently issued new
guidance, recommending that all school-aged children wear face coverings in
hospitals, schools and across the community.
"I'm announcing today that we will be issuing an order that reflects this policy statewide. This gives us the best shot to keep Ohio's kids and educators safe and physically in school," The governor said.
The new health department order was announced Tuesday by the governor, with a few exemptions. Those exceptions include:
Children under the age of 2
- Any child unable to remove the face covering without assistance
- A child with a significant behavioral/physiological issue undergoing treatment that is exacerbated by a facial covering
- A child living with severe autism or with extreme developmental delay who may become agitated by a mask
- A child with a facial obstruction that causes airway obstruction
A previous version of the state’s health order required all educators and staff wear masks for in-person learning. This new order extends to the students themselves. K-12
This information is subject to change dependent on future orders from the Governor and/or Health Department.