Despite a recent decision from the Oregon Health Authority regarding the lifting of the statewide mask mandate next month, Oregon State University announced via a press release that they would keep their current mask policy in place.
“In the coming weeks, we will evaluate carefully whether mask use remains necessary within university environments, especially classrooms,” said Dan Larson, vice provost for student affairs and OSU coronavirus response coordinator. “As we consider the implications for OSU of the state mandate being lifted in March or sooner, our primary objective remains the same: to maintain measures that are demonstrated to protect the health of the university community and the communities in which we operate.”
However, OSU decided to extend the deadline for its booster requirement from February 15 to May 1 due to a lack of available boosters in some parts of the state. As a reminder, students must upload their proof of vaccination at the Covid-19 Safety and Success website, once boosted.
Additionally, the press release revealed OSU will no longer be requiring vaccinations for outdoor events, which is effective immediately. This comes because of recent data showing that vaccination does not help prevent the spread of the virus to the extent that experts once thought. Furthermore, the risk of transmitting the coronavirus in outdoor areas is lower, according to the press release. However, all indoor events, including athletics, will continue to require proof of vaccination.
By Rebekah Harcrow
Do you have a story for The Advocate? Email editor@corvallisadvocate.com