The George Washington University and American University have returned to their indoor mask policy in the face of increasing COVID-19 cases.
George Washington released a statement saying students, faculty, and staff are required to wear face masks indoors at all facilities owned and operated by the university as of Tuesday, April 12.
The policy will remain in place through the remainder of the spring semester, exam period and commencement. Individuals may only remove their masks when they are actively eating or drinking, or are alone in a private office.
“This temporary measure is in response to an increase in positivity rates of COVID-19 on our campuses and the D.C. region,” the statement said. “We believe our university’s COVID-19 vaccine and booster requirement helps keep our community protected from severe illness or hospitalization. However, with an eye towards final exams and Commencement, we are adjusting our public health protocols to reduce transmission of COVID-19 on our campuses.”
The university has made N95 masks available to students, faculty and staff for free at its COVID-19 test centers.
Starting April 12, American University has also made it mandatory to wear masks in all campus buildings. However, faculty is allowed to choose whether to wear a mask while teaching if there is at least three feet of distance from others in the class.