COVID‑19 Update:

New indoor masking policy goes into effect March 12

Washington State University would like to once again thank members of the Cougar community for their efforts to fight the spread of COVID‑19.

As a result of this hard work and the positive public health indicators that have followed, WSU is adopting new face covering guidance in keeping with relaxed requirements being implemented by the state of Washington.

Beginning March 12, masks no longer will be required to be worn in a majority of WSU buildings. That includes classrooms, residence halls, recreation centers and dining halls. Face coverings will still be required on public transit and by those inside medical facilities, including Cougar Health Services and counseling centers, in keeping with Gov. Jay Inslee’s latest guidance and federal requirements.

While these policy changes are being made, Cougs who feel more comfortable wearing a mask should continue to do so.

Effective March 1, WSU also is no longer requiring proof of vaccination for those attending events on its campuses. This after the same restriction was lifted on the state level. More information on the changes is available on WSU Insider.

Faculty, staff, students and visitors should continue to self‑screen for illness prior to visiting a WSU facility and stay home if they are sick. Vaccines, face coverings and social distancing remain the best ways for individuals to protect themselves and others from serious illness.

Those who are not fully vaccinated and boosted are encouraged to seek them out as soon as possible. The state’s Vaccine Locator tool can help find a vaccine provider nearby simply by entering a ZIP code.

Questions about the university’s revised policies can be submitted via email to the COVID‑19 Info inbox.