Marion County schools reported a decrease in positive COVID-19 cases and quarantines for the second consecutive week.
The weekly COVID-19 report released by Marion County Public Schools shows that a total of 513 students and employees tested positive for COVID-19 from January 29 to February 4.
According to the report, 822 students and 38 employees were forced to quarantine after having direct contact with those who tested positive.
The past two weeks show a decline in overall positive cases and quarantines. During the week of January 15 to January 21, there were 1,014 students and employees who tested positive for COVID-19 along with 1,843 quarantines.
The current report shows that 61 schools and district departments reported positive cases over the week, including 29 elementary schools.
In November of 2021, the Florida Department of Health announced that the COVID-19 vaccine is available for children between the ages of 5 to 11.
Marion County Public Schools announced in October of 2021 that face coverings are optional in all of the county’s public schools.