Transitioning to Green Covid Status Level
September 9, 2022
Dear Brandeis community members,
We are writing today to update our COVID-19 Status Level, shifting to Green, effective immediately, prior to our weekend events. Our community’s near total vaccination rate and low rates of community transmission have given us the confidence to make this adjustment at this time.
Please view the COVID-19 Response website for all specifics related to Green Status, however, the primary difference from Yellow Status is related to masking:
- All masking is optional on campus EXCEPT in classrooms, in university shuttles, or other campus areas, including administrative offices, where a masking requirement is posted.
- In classes where masking is required, students who do not mask may be asked to leave class.
- In classrooms, individual faculty MAY, at their own discretion, permit unmasking. Students may always mask if they choose.
- Community members are expected to have a mask “at the ready” for entering areas or attending classes where a mask is required.
Please note that anyone identified as a close contact or who tests positive must continue to mask as instructed by the Brandeis Community Tracing Program.
There continue to be many reasons why individuals would choose to mask, on campus or off. Public health data show that high-quality masks - N95s, KN95s and KF94s - are highly effective at preventing transmission. Many individuals feel more comfortable wearing a mask where risks are known to be higher, such as in large, enclosed group settings. Anyone wishing to add a layer of protection for themselves is supported in doing so at Brandeis.
We know that COVID transmission is likely to rise as the weather gets colder, and as many community members travel around upcoming holidays and school breaks. Our community should be prepared to see a return to more precautions if case rates follow previous trends.
Thank you for your continued consideration and care for one another.
Sincerely,
Carol Fierke, Provost and Executive Vice President of Academic Affairs
Stew Uretsky, Executive Vice President of Finance and Administration
Andrea Dine, Interim Vice President for Student Affairs