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Âé¶¹ÊÓÆµ campuses are now mask-optional

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Dear Fellow Patriots:

I have more encouraging news to share about our management of COVID-19. The presence of the virus is now at a low point both on Âé¶¹ÊÓÆµâ€™s campuses and in surrounding communities. Our positivity rates have remained well below 1 percent and community transmission in Fairfax County is now categorized as “low.â€

The current low level of COVID-19 Ìýmeans that we can take another step forward. Effective immediately, Âé¶¹ÊÓÆµ campuses are mask-optional, except in certain event venues, healthcare settings, on public transit, or childcare settings. We are now also COVID test-optional, with the exception of unvaccinated, high-contact students. Visit the Safe Return to Campus page for when and where masks and tests are still required.

Every Âé¶¹ÊÓÆµ Patriot should feel free to practice the masking measures that make you feel safe. If you feel more comfortable wearing a mask, we support you. If you choose not to wear a mask where they are optional, we support you as well.

There are steps that we will take to keep our community healthy and safe:

  • We encourage all students, faculty, and staff to continue to complete the Âé¶¹ÊÓÆµ COVID Health Check each day prior to coming to a campus, through Spring Commencement on May 20.
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  • We ask that all students, faculty and staff get tested when they feel symptomatic, either at Student Health Services or at the Peterson Hall testing site.
  • And FREE 2nd booster shots for anyone over 50, per CDC and VDH guidelines are available at the .

Your dedication and compassion for your fellow Patriots has contributed to our success. Let’s keep going and finish this spring semester healthy and safe.

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Onward,

Gregory Washington

President