Mask Policy Update

This afternoon (February 25), the CDC released new mask guidance based upon COVID-19 Community Levels.  Under this new guidance, the Adair County COVID-19 Community Level is classified as “low.”  For counties with low community levels, there is no recommendation to wear a mask unless a person has symptoms, a positive test, or exposure to someone with COVID-19.  Effective at 5:00 p.m., February 25, masks will no longer be required on campus.

Those who prefer to wear masks should continue to do so.  Individuals may require others to wear masks in their personal office or workspace but must provide masks if needed.

The University will continue its current contact tracing program and will adhere to CDC guidelines regarding quarantine and isolation procedures.

Decisions regarding the mask policy are made by the President in consultation with the Executive Leadership Team.  faFactors taken into consideration include, but are not limited to: the number of active cases related to the University; the transmission rate in Adair County; the campus vaccination rate; Truman’s capacity to effectively accommodate students in isolation and quarantine; guidance of the CDC and the local health department; and the advice of Faculty Senate, Staff Council, and Student Government.

As has been the case since the beginning of the pandemic, the University will maintain a flexible approach to COVID-19 prevention and make decisions based on all relevant information available.