Implementing Mitigation Strategies in Early Care and Education Settings for Prevention of SARS-CoV-2 Transmission— Eight States, September—October 2020

December 11, 2020

Coronado F, Blough S, Bergeron D, et al.

MMWR

Coronado et al. conducted a mixed-methods study in collaboration with the ACF and the CDC in Head Start programs throughout eight states (Alaska, Georgia, Idaho, Maine, Missouri, Texas, Washington, and Wisconsin) in the United States. The objective of the national Head Start program is to promote healthy development and learning for pregnant women and children aged 0-5 years old from families that meet the Federal Poverty Guidelines. Using federal COVID-19 funds (CARES Act), the Office of Head Start supported local programs in their re-opening of in-person services during the COVID-19 pandemic. In-depth interviews with program directors revealed common themes such as flexible medical leave and enhanced benefits in response to the pandemic for staff, as well as ongoing communication about standard operating procedures between staff and parents and caregivers. Barriers to implementation of mitigation strategies included, among others, maintaining adequate ventilation, adhering to social distance guidelines, and mental health concerns. Facilitators for implementation included collaboration and continuous engagement with health departments, community organizations, and community members. Overall, gaining a better understanding of the impact mitigation strategies can bring into childcare programs will support the reduction of SARS-CoV-2 transmission while allowing communities to benefit from in-person child care and education programs.

Coronado F, Blough S, Bergeron D, et al. Implementing Mitigation Strategies in Early Care and Education Settings for Prevention of SARS-CoV-2 Transmission—Eight States, September—October 2020. MMWR Morb Mortal Wkly Rep 2020;69:1868-1872.

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