Health Services Update 6/22/21
This letter is to provide you with an update on COVID-19 data and health/safety protocols for our summer programs. We are pleased to report that the last confirmed COVID-19 case in the Town of Hanover was May 20, 2021, over one month ago. As of June 17, 2021, 68% of Hanover residents have had a least one dose of the COVID-19 vaccine, and the breakdown is as follows:
Age Group | Individuals with at least one dose per capita | Fully vaccinated individuals per capita |
|---|---|---|
12-15 Years | 42% | 27% |
16-19 Years | 76% | 63% |
20-29 Years | 73% | 62% |
30-49 Years | 81% | 73% |
50-64 Years | 81% | 74% |
65-74 Years | 92% | 85% |
75+ Years | >95% | 90% |
Total | 68% | 61% |
Given this objective data, declining case counts, hospitalizations, and deaths throughout the state, and after consultation with the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education (DESE), the Town of Hanover Board of Health, and the school district’s pediatrician, the decision was made to implement the following infection control strategies for 2021 Summer Programs:
- Masks are no longer required in indoor and outdoor settings for students or staff.
- Unvaccinated students and staff, and any individual who feels more comfortable, are encouraged to wear masks indoors if they choose.
- Other mitigation strategies will remain in place:
- Students and staff are required to stay home if they are feeling symptoms of illness, even if mild, unless there is a clear alternative diagnosis for the symptoms.
- Frequent hand washing.
- 3 foot distancing in classroom settings.
- Open windows and maximum ventilation in the buildings.
We will continue to monitor trends and any new cases, and if conditions change, we may need to re-evaluate these strategies.
In recent days, DESE has advised school districts that masks and social distancing will not be required when school reopens in September. If that changes in any way, we will provide updates later in the summer. Thank you for your continued support and patience, and please reach out if you have any questions.
Sincerely,
Patricia Smith, BSN, RN, NCSN
Director of Health Services
psmith@hanoverschools.org
781-878-5450, ext. 7405