Thread by @MonicaGandhi9

My 8 suggested changes for COVID policy 2022:
1) Boosters: risk stratify, do young males need? Space doses
2) Mask mandates based on hospitalization rates like Marin
3) CDC endorse test-to-stay. schools
4) Masks optional schools 8-12 weeks after availability of child vax (11/4)

5)Paxlovid asap
6)Acknowledge natural immunity more like Europe
7)CDC reporting: Better data on severe breakthroughs so can advise boosters, masks, etc.
8) Stop travel bans, harm reduction approach, global equity, acknowledge endemic, prevent illness
nytimes.com/2021/12/11/opi…

Guess not clear. Suggesting off ramps for masks for both adults and kids for top points. I said after AVAILABILITY of child vax; some adults deciding. And yes I recommend for immunocompromised like my dad -fit and filtered masks inside. Everytime I mention masks, both sides yell

In relevance to point #1, please see this piece from today in the Washington Post
washingtonpost.com/outlook/2021/1…

In relevance to point #2, please see @j_g_allen's piece in Washington Post yesterday about how masks protect YOU so immunocompromised & those who desire protection need N95s or similar but mask mandates for all not effective now washingtonpost.com/opinions/2021/…

In reference to point #8 (how are still closing schools this late in the pandemic despite knowing mental health effects on children), please read our piece in TIME today with @LeslieBienen. We need a different strategy esp with Omicron
time.com/6129225/omicro…

And finally, to complete this thread, why so many countries suggest increasing the spacing between doses which is relevant for point #1 (safety and effectiveness)

https://twitter.com/MonicaGandhi9/status/1450276455280037888

So happy #3 of 8 happened today! CDC endorses test-to-stay! In terms of #2 on masks, 2 options: 1) Say all wear N95 inside (probably not realistic after vax); 2) Focused protection: Anyone at risk or who wants no risk: N95, KN95 or double mask inside
washingtonpost.com/education/2021…