(AP) — Hawaiʻi’s Department of Health has updated its guidance to schools a week before the start of another school year during the pandemic. The department’s guidance announced Monday includes recommendations for wearing masks in all indoor settings and maintaining at least 3 feet (1 meter) of physical distance between students in classrooms, when possible. Acting State State Epidemiologist Dr. Sarah Kemble says masks are recommended outdoors when there’s crowding or prolonged close contact. The department said schools should consider screening testing for all teachers and staff who have not been fully vaccinated regardless of the level of community transmission.

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