In response to a recent surge in COVID-19 cases over the summer, New York Gov. Kathy Hochul (D) announced on Wednesday that the state will be providing COVID-19 tests and masks to school districts.
This announcement comes after the authorities in New York City discovered the BA.2.86 subvariant in the city’s sewage system, according to city officials.
To determine the needs of each district, including the need for test kits and masks, the state will be reaching out to the Education Department and Boards of Cooperative Educational Services (BOCES). This will include providing both N95 and KN95 masks.
In a statement, Hochul expressed her gratitude towards New York schools, teachers, and parents for their hard work in ensuring student safety. She acknowledged that frequent testing for COVID-19 is crucial in preventing outbreaks and emphasized her commitment to providing the necessary resources for safe, in-person learning.
Hochul also urged school districts to review the current school guidance for COVID-19 prevention provided by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
The BA.2.86 COVID-19 subvariant was first detected in July and has been reported in a small number of cases in countries such as the U.S., Denmark, South Africa, the U.K., and Israel.
A recent risk assessment from the CDC suggested that the BA.2.86 subvariant may be more infectious for individuals who have previously had COVID-19 or have been vaccinated.
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