this lack of uniformity? Eighteen days after the mask mandate was reinstated, the Nashua Public
school needed to close because of high covid teacher absenteeism, despite having a masking
policy since the start of the school year.
[13] Adopt a policy to only recommend covid testing if symptomatic and define symptomatic.
Recommend a reduction in testing for Nashua residents. What is the scientific reliability of rapid
testing versus PCR testing? How much false data is generated by each? Should rapid testing be
stopped?
[14] Create a masking policy that states the only effective masks are N95 or KN95. While | totally
disagree with your mask policy, the Board’s endorsement of policies created “half way”
demonstrates a lack of leadership. If you believe that you know the right answer, message the
right answer.
[15] Create a recommendation that every public organization should welcome those to their
buildings when proper protocols are followed. Our public schools are not allowing parent
volunteers into buildings. The education of Nashua’s children, within the public education system,
has lost a lot of ground based on bad policy. Private school children have fared better because
schools remained open, and have allowed parent volunteers, with some private schools allowing
masking choices. This board should be concerned with how health policy has eroded the
education of our children and the consequences to mental health.
[16] Some private schools opened the year with masking choices and have maintained these
policies. As far as | know, none of those schools ended up closing because of an epidemic spread
among children or teachers. Determine why private schools have not experienced the shutdowns
associated with COVID that the public schools have experienced despite having masking policies in
place since the start of school.
[17] Promote the message that this virus is now an endemic that we will live with. Dr. Fauci
11/28/21 (speaking with Margaret Brennan CBS face the nation) - “ Americans are “going to have
to start living” with the virus as “we’re not going to eradicate” it.”
The Board of Health erred in creating a policy that allowed restaurants, bars, casinos and clubs to
remain open for unmasked business while demanding masks be worn in all other essential
businesses.
It is inappropriate for any member of the Board of Health to create a message based on fear;
please promote solutions not fear.
Laurie Ortolano
41 Berkeley St.
Nashua, NH 03064
