U.S. health officials are restating their recommendation that Americans wear masks on planes, trains and buses, despite a court ruling last month that struck down a national mask mandate on public transportation.

On Friday, Dec. 4 the CDC published in a weekly report updated guidelines that recommend “universal use of face masks” as COVID-19 cases, hospitalizations and deaths climb across the nation at dangerous rates. “Face mask use is most important in indoor spaces and outdoors when physical distance of 6 feet (or less) cannot be maintained,” the CDC’s report reads. Read more: What the CDC says about face masks -- a refresherThe updated guidelines come amid recent research that shows face masks not only prevent a person from spreading COVID-19, but they also provide some protection to the wearer -- though to a lesser extent. In light of the new guidelines, the CDC is encouraging state and local governments to “issue policies or directives mandating universal use of face masks in indoor (nonhousehold) settings,” and to provide face masks to populations in need to help prevent the spread of COVID. Majority of the CDC’s previously-issued mask guidelines have not changed, however, including what types of masks to wear and how to wear them.

Thanksgiving will be different this year for American families and friends who want to minimize the spread of the coronavirus and keep each other safe. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) is warning that travel increases the chance of getting and spreading the virus that causes COVID-19. From the CDC:Traditional Thanksgiving gatherings with family and friends are fun but can increase the chances of getting or spreading COVID-19 or the flu. Remember that some people without symptoms may be able to spread COVID-19 or flu. For more CDC guidelines and tips for Thanksgiving amid the pandemic, go here.

DETROIT While the debate over how to reopen schools rages on, many youth sports are already bringing children back together in Michigan. The Centers For Disease Control and Prevention has updated its advice on how to safely resume youth sports amid the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic. Each player should have their own equipment, and any equipment thats shared should be cleaned between players, the guidelines recommend. It will take cooperation from everyone on the team to follow these guidelines, including keeping children home when theyre sick. If a player on a youth sports team tests positive for the coronavirus, others who have had contact with that player should self-quarantine.