AMHERST — For the return of full in-person learning, the University of Massachusetts Amherst will require all faculty and staff to receive a vaccination against the virus that causes COVID-19, and a new policy also requires anyone entering an indoor public space on campus to wear a mask over their mouth and nose.
“I am confident that with everyone’s cooperation we will make the return to campus a safe and welcoming experience,” Chancellor Kumble R. Subbaswamy wrote in a Monday letter to the campus community announcing the changes.
In late July, UMass Amherst announced that students who intend to live, attend class or conduct research on campus, or use campus resources such as the library, are required to be fully vaccinated against the novel coronavirus. After negotiations with labor unions, that policy now applies to faculty and staff.
Subbaswamy said 96% of domestic undergraduate and graduate students are in compliance with the vaccine mandate, a figure that he called “truly impressive.” He added that “a significant number” of faculty and staff have received shots.
“The great majority of international students are also vaccinated,” Subbaswamy wrote. “We know some international students have been unable to access a vaccination, and we are working closely to ensure proper entry into the U.S. per (CDC) guidance, as well as arranging for vaccinations upon arrival in Amherst.”
The indoor mask mandate goes into effect Wednesday, and the university plans to review the policy in mid-September. The university website describes the policy in detail, and includes a list of exceptions — such as children under 2 and anyone with a medical excuse — along with tips to prevent eyeglasses from fogging up while wearing a mask.
Students who cannot wear a mask must contact the Disability Services Office, while employees who cannot wear a mask need to request an accommodation through the Accessible Workplace Office.
“Your face covering must cover nose and mouth; fit snugly but comfortably against the side of the face; be secured with ties, elastic or ear loops; include multiple layers of fabric; (and) allow for breathing without restriction,” the policy reads. “Using face coverings incorrectly can spread germs. … People should have at least two face coverings so they can rotate for washing.”
The free “Stop the Spread” COVID-19 testing site at the Mullins Center is moving to the lower level of the Campus Center in the coming days, and the university plans to keep it open to the public “for the foreseeable future,” UMass spokesman Edward Blaguszewski said.
Anyone can drop in or schedule an appointment for Mondays and Thursdays from 7 a.m. to 3 p.m. and Tuesdays and Wednesdays from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Results are typically provided within 24 to 36 hours.
Brian Steele can be reached at bsteele@gazettenet.com.
