In light of the CDC’s recent changes to mask guidance, the Healthcare Advisory Group has updated the University’s mask guidance to incorporate key features of the CDC guidance. Going forward, the University’s mask rules will, at a minimum, be consistent with CDC guidance, which relies on community COVID-19 levels to determine when indoor masking is required.

As each of the communities in which our campuses are located are currently designated by the CDC to be areas of low or medium COVID-19 levels, effective Monday, March 28, 2022, masks will be optional inside University facilities on all campuses. Should the conditions in our communities change significantly before the 28th, the change will be revisited. Consistent with CDC guidance for public transportation, masks will continue to be required on University-operated shuttles. Also, since masks are still required in health care settings, you will need to continue to adhere to masking guidance for those spaces we share with UPMC and other designated clinical settings. 

Please respect individual decisions regarding whether or not to wear a mask. While no longer required by the University starting on March 28, all members of our community are welcome to wear a face covering at any time, for any reason. The University will continue to provide face coverings, including N95 masks, at concierge stations throughout our campuses. 

Please remember wearing a well-fitted mask will help protect you from contracting SARS-CoV-2, even if those around you are not wearing masks. Masks are highly effective at reducing the risk of contracting any respiratory virus for the person wearing the mask. Read frequently asked questions about face coverings.

All of the University’s other mitigation requirements remain in place. This includes our weekly COVID-19 testing program for unvaccinated individuals, restricted building access and guest registration.