SANTA MONICA, CA — Some Santa Monica students returned to school Tuesday as county authorities warn of increased COVID-19, respiratory syncytial virus, or RSV, and flu cases.
Malibu and Santa Monica students were asked to take tests provided to them the night or morning before returning to school. Elementary schools resumed on Tuesday with secondary schools following on Wednesday.
“Covid cases, flu and RSV are present in our communities. Let’s work together to minimize illness spread upon return to school following winter break!” Interim Superintendent Mark Kelly said in a message to community members Monday.
Los Angeles County saw 6,935 new confirmed COVID-19 since Saturday, with 62 new deaths in the same time frame. Santa Monica had 25,535 positive COVID cases Tuesday. Cases sharply increased last week, with numbers dropping significantly by Tuesday.
“In order to avoid outbreaks at businesses and schools, Public Health officials ask that everyone wear a mask for at least the first 10 days when returning to work and school after their winter holiday break,” the county public health department said in a statement.
Kelly on Monday emphasized the county’s call for masking and staying home when sick.
“Take your free site-provided Covid-19 test the evening before or in the morning before coming to school / work. Together, we can help minimize virus spread in our community,” Kelly said. “Stay home if sick and call your site. Take a Covid test.”
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