Update on COVID policy and guidance
To the Wake Forest community,
University administrators and public health officials are continually reviewing research and guidelines communicated by the CDC regarding the COVID-19 pandemic and the potent Delta variant. Data confirms that the FDA authorized vaccines remain our best defense against COVID-19 and its variant strains.
Effective immediately and until further notice:
- All campus visitors, as well as faculty, staff and students who have not been approved to be unmasked, must wear a mask indoors when on campus and in all other University properties, except when in a residence hall room or alone in a private office. Masks are optional for vaccinated faculty, staff and students.
- Campus academic buildings will be closed to visitors. Buildings open to visitors include Reynolda Hall, Benson University Center, Wellbeing Center, University Corporate Center, ZSR Library and select athletics facilities.
- Some indoor areas of campus require face masks for all due to special circumstances; for example, Student Health Service. Please follow all signage instructions.
Guidance to navigate the next few weeks:
- Please take extra precautions in social situations and large gatherings occurring off campus when the vaccination status of those gathered is unknown. Specifically, the CDC encourages all to wear a mask when indoors at public locations regardless of their vaccination status.
- Continue supporting all members of the campus community who are wearing face masks. The campus respects those who must or choose to wear masks. Individuals wearing masks should not be questioned about their masks, nor should they be discouraged or prohibited from wearing them.
- Be aware of and anticipate changes to guidance based on evolving data and recommendations from public health officials. Remain attentive to emails and information posted to Our Way Forward.
- On Thursday, August 5 at 4 p.m., a forum for faculty and staff will include an update from Dr. Chris Ohl (Zoom information to follow). Please submit any questions you may have through this Google form by noon tomorrow.
- The University continues to encourage every member of our community to get vaccinated against COVID-19. The vaccine is safe, effective and available.
— Communications and External Relations