To the editor:

As we approach another school year in a pandemic, the job of our local school boards is difficult. Their willingness to assure that youth in our community get a high quality education as well as enrichment activities even during a pandemic is very important to our community.

I am writing to express my opinion regarding public health safety measures when school is back in session. Ideally, all teachers and students would be vaccinated. However, since children under 12 cannot get vaccinated, and some people remain unvaccinated by choice, we cannot achieve an ideal situation. In order to protect students, teachers and staff, I strongly recommend that school districts follow the CDC guidelines. Social distancing measures are definitely helpful, but difficult to maintain at times. In addition, classrooms have limitations. Thankfully we have a safe and effective method for decreasing the spread of COVID-19 in our schools.

Masks have been shown to be safe and effective in decreasing the spread of disease. There is no risk to masking. It is not true that they cause low oxygen levels or breathing difficulties. Masks are not more restrictive than requiring students to wear shirts and pants. They are just new and different. Those of us that work in health care wear masks for 12 hour shifts without adverse affect. I urge the school board to follow the CDC recommendations that everyone wear masks when indoors or when in a crowd outside.

Thanks to all of those who volunteer there time and talents as school board members. You are appreciated.

Joan Krikava, MD

Internal Medicine

New Ulm Medical Center