The University of Delaware will still require face masks in classroom settings while relaxing mandates in other settings.
In a message to the U.S community, the university stated that masks would not be required in non-classroom settings including labs, offices, and athletic events.
Masks will be required in health care settings, in transportation, and in child care areas. Testing will be required based on vaccination status.
Students and staff traveling internationally will be required to be up to date on vaccinations.
In keeping the classroom mask requirement in place, the university cited higher rates of Covid-19 than Delaware as a whole. On Thursday, UD reported 52 new Covid-19 cases among students. On the same day, the Delaware Division of Public Health reported 129 cases for the entire state.
This week, Gov. John Carney ended school mask and vaccination mandates.
UD has seen upticks in cases when students return for a new semester. That is generally followed by a sharp downturn in cases.
Policies are subject to change, the university noted.
“Active health and safety measures will always be an ongoing priority at UD as we continuously monitor developments, adapt our culture, and improve community practices. What remains consistent is our shared commitment to support a better future for all Blue Hens throughout the spring semester and beyond,” the message concluded.
Ninety-four percent or more of staff and students are vaccinated.
