Thread by @DrJinRussell

Cabinet is going to possibly announce changes to the traffic light settings in Ao/NZ on Thursday. A shift to orange could mean masks are no longer mandated for Y4+ in schools.

Here are five reasons why I think we should keep wearing masks in schools through this winter /1

First, masks are about source control - protecting each other. They are a simple and effective way to reduce the risk of transmission of Covid-19, and are an important layer of protection in schools during the pandemic. /1

Secondly, students in Y4+ and up have done a brilliant job (mostly) in wearing masks indoors. It is easier to keep these good habits in place for a bit longer, than to repeal and then replace them. /2

Thirdly, this winter could be a tough one. We have an “immunity debt” for influenza, and possibly RSV, and measles at the door (please make sure your kids are up to date). Remember “RSV-geddon” last year? Viruses tend to thrive in winter /3 theconversation.com/amp/rates-of-c…

Fourthly, our healthcare system is typically stretched in winter. If masks can reduce transmission of Covid-19 in schools, as well as reduce transmission of other viruses, we can all stay healthier, and take pressure off our thin healthcare system./4 thespinoff.co.nz/society/28-03-…

Finally, wearing masks takes better care of children with chronic conditions, enabling more students to be at school. And with less sickness all around, there is hopefully less time off school as well. /5

A decision to keep masks as a requirement in schools through winter would be prudent. From the Auckland experience, just recommending masks doesn’t tend to lead to consistent mask wearing. This winter might be unusually tough. We need all the protective layers we can get. /end

Before I sign off, people may be interested to know what developmental, social, educational cost for students in keeping masks in schools. There is some, sure, but these need to be weighed against similar costs from viral spread in winter, and can be reassessed as we go.