Missouri changes school quarantine guidance as long as masks are worn

JEFFERSON CITY, Mo. — State leaders in Missouri have announced a major guidance change that could keep more students in the classroom and not home in quarantine. But at least one local health department said it has no plans to adopt the guidance.

The new guidance redefines what should happen when there are COVID-19 cases in schools.

As long as both the person diagnosed with COVID-19 and the person exposed to that positive case were properly wearing masks, the individual who was exposed does not have to quarantine.

Governor Mike Parson said this change will decrease the number of close contact cases in K-12 schools throughout the state, while also encouraging more schools to implement a mask mandate.

“We have been working hard with DESE and DHSS to find a solution that allows us to continue providing the high-quality education our students deserve while still keeping them, our teachers, and all school staff members safe,” Gov. Parson said Thursday.

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