Students in Los Angeles are ordered to wear non-cloth masks at all times

As part of steps to combat the spread of COVID-19, students in Los Angeles must now use non-fabric masks at all times on campus, both inside and outside.

Students in the Los Angeles Unified School District (LAUSD) must now wear "well-fitting, non-cloth masks with a nose wire" at all times, even during sports, as of Monday.

Employees will be expected to use surgical grade masks or higher, according to the new policy, which was disclosed in a letter to families.

"Our in-school [coronavirus infection] rates have decreased," district spokesman Shannon Haber told the Los Angeles Times, "but we are continuing to be cautious and nimble in ensuring the safest educational environment."

The updated policy comes after the Los Angeles County Department of Public Health (LACDPH) released guidance (pdf) noting that medical masks should be worn to prevent the transmission of COVID-19 as they are more effective in doing so.

25 Jan 2022