Coronavirus gathering restrictions removed in Mississippi, masks requirements in K-12 schools remain

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kobee vance

• Published on May 3, 2021 • Comments

Health officials and leaders with the Mississippi State Medical Association discuss COVID-19 and guidance around vaccines
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Mississippi’s Governor has put an end to any restrictions on gatherings, with the exception that masks must be worn indoors at k-12 schools. Health officials say masks may not be needed when children return to classrooms in the Fall.

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Governor Tate Reeves’s new executive order extends mask requirements in k-12 schools for children and adults through the end of the academic school year. But masks are no longer required at outdoor sporting events and activities. State Health Officer Dr. Thomas Dobbs says once students are vaccinated, they may not have to wear masks in schools.

“We have been so successful in schools, and I know that a lot of the parents are wanting their kids not to wear masks in school, and I think we’ll be there for next fall. I think we’re going to be there,” says Dr. Dobbs. “But we’ve been so fortunate in Mississippi I think, except for some of our overexuberance for extracurriculars, I think we’ve done a fantastic job.”

Currently, the Pfizer coronavirus vaccine is under review by the Food and Drug Administration to determine if it is safe and effective for children age 12 and older. State Epidemiologist Dr. Paul Byers says the Pfizer study found the vaccine to be extremely effective in children and could receive approval in as early as two weeks.

“And that’s going to be a big component for us too. And the lower we can get that down, and the more vaccinated children we can get, that’s going to be the key to having things like being able to open up to more normal operations in the school setting,” says Dr. Byers.

A recent survey from the Department of Health found that 52% of Mississippians plan to get their children vaccinated for the coronavirus.