CDC Says Vaccinated Students, Teachers Do Not Need To Wear Masks Inside School Buildings

CHICAGO (CBS)-- Vaccinated students and teachers at local schools do not need to wear masks inside school buildings, according to the CDC.

The CDC recommends maintaining at least three feet of distance between students in classroom to reduce the transmission risk. Masks should be worn indoors by individuals who are not fully vaccinated, according to the national guidelines released Friday.

The CDC said returning to in-person learning in the fall of 2021 is a priority. The CDC also provided guidance for schools based on levels of COVID transmission:

In a statement the city health department and Chicago Public Schools said:

"As we turn the corner on this pandemic, the health of Chicago's students and staff remains our highest priority as Chicago's schools prepare to fully open in the fall. While we are still in the process of reviewing the newly-released CDC guidance, we are encouraged by its flexibility in recognition of the absolute necessity of providing in-person learning five days a week in the fall. After we have an opportunity to thoroughly review the guidance, we will inform the public about any potential impact on school opening guidance."\

In its statement, the Illinois state health department said it would fully adopt the CDC's recommendations.

"Our goal is to protect the health of students, teachers, and staff so that in-person learning can resume as safely as possible," said IDPH Director Dr. Ngozi Ezike.  "The CDC is right: vaccination is the best preventive strategy. As school board members, parents, teachers and superintendents plan for a return to in-person learning in the fall, we strongly encourage those who are not vaccinated to continue to mask. IDPH is proud to fully adopt school guidance issued by CDC, which is based on the latest scientific information about COVID-19."