A motion at Monday’s Board of Health meeting to exempt children less than age six from the town’s indoor mask requirement was defeated by a vote of 3-2.
However, Board chair Anita Raj promised to revisit the matter at the next meeting, scheduled for Sept. 27.
Member Ann Kiessling offered the motion, pointing out that the state Department of Early Education and Care (EEC) “strongly recommends” masks on younger children, but leaves the decision up to parents. She wondered, “Why are we setting a position that doesn’t agree with the state guidance?”
Member Maureen Richichi, who supported the motion, acknowledged that there has been Covid transmission in preschools, but Kiessling responded that “children are very rarely the transmitters.” Porter noted that “we have heard from some daycare providers that they are happy with the mask mandate.” Kiessling said nothing would force them to change their policies.
A resident also urged raising the minimum masking age. During the public comment period, Kelly Horton said that according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, many other ailments, including seasonal flu, are more of a threat to young children than Covid-19. “Parents know best and are capable of making informed decisions about their children’s overall well-being,” she said.
In answer to a question from member Bea Brunkhorst, Health and Human Services Director Heidi Porter said Belmont, Billerica, Lexington, and Winchester all begin their indoor mandate at age two, and there may be others.
Mike Rosenberg can be reached at [email protected], or 781-983-1763
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