Vanderbilt University will no longer require masking or physical distancing indoors. The change is effective immediately and aligns the university with recent CDC guidance that classifies Davidson County in the “medium” COVID-19 community level.
Individuals will have the option of wearing a mask indoors, including in classrooms, offices, labs, dining and community spaces.
“Mask optional” means it is an individual’s choice whether to wear a mask or not. The university will continue to support those who want to wear a mask at any time for any reason, and expects all community members to respect one another as well. There will no longer be physical distancing requirements, whether an individual is masking or not.
Information regarding masking and capacity protocols within VUMC buildings can be found on the VUMC website.
According to new CDC data, Davidson County is currently in the medium COVID-19 community level. CDC guidance indicates that individuals should:
- Talk to their health care provider about whether they need to wear a mask and take other precautions if they are at high risk for severe illness.
- Stay up to date with COVID-19 vaccines.
- Get tested if they have symptoms.
- Wear a mask if they have symptoms, have a positive test, or have been exposed to someone with COVID-19.
Vanderbilt University’s positive cases dropped to 27 during the week of Feb. 20–26, and metrics continue to show decreasing trends.
Anyone who wishes to discuss additional accommodations related to the protocol changes should submit a request to Student Access or Equal Opportunity and Access.
As always, university leaders will continue to monitor trends and work with public health experts to update campus policies if needed.
Testing Reminders
Asymptomatic testing protocols for faculty, staff, students and postdocs remain in place.
Testing for asymptomatic individuals continues to be available for all members of our community regardless of testing protocol status at the Vanderbilt Testing Center in the David Williams II Recreation and Wellness Center.
No appointment is necessary. Hours and other details can be found on the Testing Protocols page.
Symptomatic individuals are encouraged to continue using the Student Health Center and Occupational Health Clinic.