COVID-19 Planning

Colonels Combat COVID

Returning for the 2021-22 Academic Year

As of March 17, 2022, Wilkes University has adopted a mask-optional policy. Generally, students, faculty, staff and visitors can wear a mask if they feel more comfortable doing so as long as they are not sick, experiencing symptoms or following isolation or quarantine protocols. There are several importance exemptions as detailed in the FAQs.

Wilkes University looks forward to welcoming you back for the 2021-22 academic year. With much of our campus community vaccinated, we are returning to reduced restrictions. But the pandemic is not over. Cases continue to be reported worldwide, particularly among those who are not vaccinated. Fortunately, the existing vaccines are proven to be highly effective against existing variants, some of which are more contagious and more severe than previous strains of the virus.

The protocols listed below focus on how both vaccinated and unvaccinated members of our campus community can learn, work and interact with others as safely as possible. As always, our decisions will be made with your health and safety at top of mind and under the guidance of national, state and regional health officials.

Though vaccines are not required, it is the best protection we have. We encourage everyone who can be vaccinated to do so for the health and safety of themselves and others.

Wilkes University campus protocols are as follows.

All members are required to report their vaccination status. You can do so by uploading a copy of your vaccination card or documentation though the COVID Documentation Submission Form. If you cannot or opt not to be vaccinated for any reason, you must submit an exemption form.
Unvaccinated individuals must participate in assurance testing. This is required on a weekly basis. Those who do not appear for testing will face University sanctions.
Masks are optional. Faculty and staff can require masks in their classrooms and labs or individual office spaces. Masks will continue to be required in any campus medical, health or testing spaces. Masks are recommended in shared University transportation and during any major events or large gatherings. Read details in the FAQs.
Isolation and quarantine will be required with varying requirements. Anyone testing positive for COVID-19 will isolate for at least five days, per revised CDC guidance issued in Dec. 2021. Quarantine requirements vary based on when/if you are vaccinated or have received a booster dose. Testing on the fifth day of isolation, quarantine or exposure is key. Please refer to the FAQs for details.

As the health situation changes, so will our protocols. Please continue to monitor this page and your Wilkes email for additional announcements.

Questions?

Have a question? Check our FAQs. You may also submit a question online. We will address common questions in a group email format or by adding answers here as our plans are finalized.

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