Northwestern University is relaxing some of its’ coronavirus-related regulations regarding masks, testing, and event capacity.
In a message to students, faculty, and staff, University Vice President Luke Figora says the changes are being made “to align with guidance from federal, state, and local public health agencies” as the COVID-19 pandemic diminishes.
Figora says that those who are fully vaccinated against the virus no longer have to wear masks in most indoor spaces or outdoors on campus. Anyone who is not vaccinated must still wear a mask indoors.
Figora notes that some fully vaccinated individuals might still “choose to continue wearing a mask for the own personal comfort, and the community is expected to support their choices.”
There could be some indoor campus events, Figora says, where “masks may be required more broadly.” They are still mandated at university health facilities and testing sites.
Fully vaccinated students no longer have to complete asymptomatic COVID testing. However, those who are not fully vaccinated will still have to take two rapid antigen tests per week.
Figora also says that capacity limits and restrictions have been lifted for indoor meetings and events. However, depending on the event, it is possible that masks will be required for everyone, vaccinated or not.
In closing, Figora says “Thank you for your diligence as we adapt to the changing landscape.”