Due to rising cases of COVID-19, on July 26, 2021, the university reinstated its indoor mask requirement, in accordance with the city and county mandates that went into effect on the same day. Masks are required at indoor gatherings for everyone, regardless of vaccination status or the size of a meeting or gathering.
Masks are not required for those working inside a private office or room with the door closed, or while eating or drinking with appropriate (six-foot) physical distancing. Please note that individuals working in open cubes are required to wear masks indoors at all times, with the exception of eating and drinking (accompanied by six-foot social distancing). Masks are encouraged but not required for outdoor activities. This policy applies to both the Danforth and Medical campuses.
The delta variant of COVID-19, which is prevalent in the St. Louis region, is highly contagious and poses a significant risk of severe illness to individuals who are not fully vaccinated, and also can sometimes cause breakthrough infections in those who are fully vaccinated. These cases generally have only mild symptoms, but still are cause for concern as they may be able to spread COVID-19 to others.
Please do not come to campus if you are ill; mild symptoms similar to those of a common cold may actually be COVID-19. Call the COVID Call Center at 314-362-5056 to report symptoms or exposure and to arrange for a free test. You can learn more about delta and other COVID-19 variants on the CDC website.
The university will continue to monitor the situation closely and will adjust policies as needed to protect the health and safety of all members of our community. However, should mask policies change in the future, members of the university community should not feel pressured to remove their mask, and may exercise the practice that makes them feel safest.
Click here to see summer guidelines for Danforth and Medical campuses.