Children aged 12 and older may have to receive the COVID-19 vaccine before returning to school in California, the state’s top health official said Thursday. While speaking at a news conference, Health and Human Services Secretary Mark Ghaly was asked about a potential statewide mandate for children returning to class. He said that no decision has been made yet for students but said officials are considering the move. “That conversation is part of what we’re considering as a state, but no definitive action is being made at the moment,” Ghaly told reporters. “It’s been a long conversation about vaccines in schools and their role in protecting students. We of course are always looking at the data, understanding where there are opportunities to ensure California’s vulnerable—those who can be protected—are protected through vaccinations.” Los Angeles County earlier this month voted to approve a resolution requiring vaccinations for children attending public schools. …