The Missouri State Medical Association (MSMA) supports the conclusions of the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) regarding the effectiveness of masks to reduce transmission of the COVID virus.

A news release says studies of masking in the community, homes, hospitals, schools, businesses and airlines demonstrate reduced transmission with increased masking. There is sufficient evidence that adults and school-age children wearing masks are safe during daily living and school activities.

MSMA also agrees with the recommendations of the CDC, and the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP), recommending a thoughtful community-based approach for in-school learning. Both the CDC and the AAP advise that local school districts should monitor community transmission and outbreaks, as well as vaccination coverage and testing to guide decisions regarding in-school COVID prevention strategies. The AAP and CDC also recommend universal indoor masking by all students ages two and older, as well as staff, teachers and visitors to K-12 schools, regardless of vaccination status.

MSMA says it vigorously supports these recommendations for the safety of the children and staff in communities. MSMA supports decision-making by school boards and local public health departments based on the presence and prevalence of COVID within their communities.

MSMA, the state’s largest professional association of physicians, residents and medical students, is dedicated to the protection of public health and betterment of the medical profession in Missouri. For more information, visit www.msma.org.