Trending COVID-19 Protocols in Fall 2021

As the 2021 fall semester begins, we are seeing masks and other COVID-19 protocols returning. But most everything is still in flux.

Here is a round-up of a variety of current COVID-19 protocols at universities around the country. Please note these are constantly shifting.

Kent State University

On August 4, 2021, Kent State announced masks will be required on campus regardless of vaccination status. It was in response to the recent surge in COVID-19 cases.

Georgia State University

Fully vaccinated individuals do not have to wear a mask, while those who are unvaccinated are strongly encouraged to wear face coverings indoors. Find the rest of the guidelines here.

Texas Tech University

Students, faculty and staff who are fully vaccinated can register for weekly drawings. The first will be on September 15, 2021. The idea is to encourage vaccination among the community.

As of the last update on July 19, 2021, face-coverings are still optional. Vaccination is strongly encouraged.

University of California Santa Barbara

While you no longer need a reservation to use the recreation center, face coverings are still a must. Day passes are not currently available. Only students, faculty, staff and their spouses can use the facilities at this time.

University of Mississippi

Regardless of vaccination status, the university is requiring masks to be worn indoors. The announcement was made on August 5, 2021.

University of North Carolina at Charlotte

Per the University’s Community Guidelines issued on July 29, 2021, all indoor spaces require masks no matter your vaccination status.

University of Wisconsin-River Falls

In an Instagram post on August 9, 2021, the recreation department announced masks will be required while inside the facility. This applies to both those who have the vaccine and those without it. It went into effect August 10.

West Virginia University

All employees and students are required to take a new COVID-19 educational module prior to August 17. The goal is to educate and inform the community, helping them understand their personable accountability as it relates to COVID-19.

Those not fully vaccinated are expected to wear masks while inside university facilities, as well as when outdoors around other people. Those vaccinated do not have to wear masks.

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