After reading about parents at the most recent school board meeting talking about not mandating masks in our schools, I think it's important that these parents understand the possible consequences of those actions.
The Delta variant is affecting children much more than the original COVID-19. Yes, most kids who get COVID-19 will be fine, but those who aren't may end up hospitalized. I believe Durango parents need to understand that Mercy Regional Medical Center does not have a pediatric ICU. If your child requires a high level of care, they will be transported to another hospital and you will not be going with them.
Health experts are also seeing more and more longhaul COVID-19 in children, which means that debilitating symptoms stay with them for months and months.
It is very important that kids are back in school and that they are also safe. Risking your child's well-being over some misguided political view is selfish. When did people in this country become so self-centered? Kids adjust to masks very easily; it's their parents that are the problem. Kids probably would prefer not to be in car seats or seat belts, but we require those because it saves lives. You may never be in a car accident but if you are, having your child protected is the difference between life and death.
Get vaccinated and mask up for school.
Erica Max
Hesperus
