#CDC head Robert Redfield pushes for schools to reopen in ‘public health interest’

The head of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention on Friday pushed for schools to reopen in the fall during the coronavirus pandemic, saying it’s in the “public health interest” to do so.

“I don’t think I can emphasize it enough as the director for the Centers for Disease Control, the leading public health agency in the world — it is in the public health interest that these K through 12 students to get the schools back open for face-to-face learning,” Dr. Robert Redfield told lawmakers with the House Select Subcommittee on the Coronavirus Crisis.

Redfield, a grandfather of 11 children, including one with cystic fibrosis, noted the important role schools play in mental health services and reporting of child abuse.

“I want these kids back in school,” he said. “I want it done smartly but I think we have to be honest that the public health and interest of the students in the nation right now is to get a quality education and face-to-face learning. We need to get on with it.”

Redfield was testifying at the hearing about the country’s plan moving forward on combating COVID-19. Dr. Anthony Fauci, director of the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases and member of the White House coronavirus task force, and Adm. Brett Giroir, assistant secretary of the Department of Health and Human Services, also testified.

Last week, the CDC issued its guidance on reopening schools, with the agency suggesting practicing “cohorting” — where a group of students stay together throughout the school day to minimize exposure of the virus.