The latest variants of COVID-19, BA.4 and BA.5, are spreading quickly and broadly throughout the country. Jefferson County and much of Kentucky have been placed at a , signaling that our area is experiencing high rates of transmission and hospitalization. The CDC strongly recommends red level areas to mask indoors.  

We have been closely monitoring this situation over the last few weeks and we are frequently meeting to discuss the latest information. At this time, there is no change to our policies, but we strongly encourage all Cardinals to mask indoors for the duration of this surge.

This is a fluid situation. Next week, we’ll send out another update and provide information on where you can pick up a free KN95 mask on campus soon.  

As a Community of Care, it is important that we all act with extra vigilance during this time and follow the seven  to the best of our ability. If you have questions or concerns, reach out to a member of the . We’ve met every challenge the pandemic has posed to our university community thus far, and — together— we will continue to meet these challenges.

“As we gear up for the spring semester, we want you to know the university remains committed to conducting in-person instruction. We will keep our current health and safety protocols in place, and we will continue monitoring the impact of the COVID-19 Omicron variant and hospitalization rates. For our new and returning Cardinals, please remember the following key aspects of our COVID-19 response:

• are still required in public, indoor settings on campus. The university will be providing up to two masks (KN95/N95 or equivalent) to all Cardinals who would like to have them. Masks will be made available in high-traffic areas around campus by Monday, Jan. 10.  More information will soon follow.
• Regular testing is still mandatory for unvaccinated Cardinals. The next required testing period begins Jan. 10. Click to schedule a testing appointment. Anyone who would like to get tested, not just those who are required to do so, may make an appointment.
• Quarantine and isolation protocols are required when Cardinals are exposed or test positive for COVID-19. We have implemented the CDC’s newly published guidelines that shortened the number of days required for quarantine and isolation depending on vaccination type and booster status. The updated protocols can be found .
• Booster and vaccination clinics will continue to be offered by Campus Health. Click for time and location details.
• For questions and concerns about the university’s COVID-19 response, review the on the COVID-19 website or contact the .
• Lastly, university leadership continues to monitor all federal and state regulations and related litigation concerning COVID-19 vaccination and testing mandates. As decisions are made that impact our university, we will inform you.

We are pleased to be entering the spring 2022 semester with of 91%. We strongly encourage all Cardinals to get vaccinated and boosted. We thank you for all you have done and what you continue to do to keep our community safe and thriving.”

If you are fully vaccinated

• You no longer need to wear a mask or physically distance on campus in most settings.
• Be mindful of the specific requirements that still apply with public transportation and health care settings on campus, regardless of vaccination status. For example, Cardinals who wish to use the TARC shuttle services or health care facilities on our campuses will still need to wear a mask. Those settings are still required to abide by the state’s and the Kentucky Health Department’s masking standards, regardless of vaccination status.
• For the foreseeable future, you should continue to carry a mask with you in case you interact with university affiliates, health care facilities or other vendors that have mask requirements in place.

If you are not fully vaccinated

• Continue to wear a mask and practice physical distancing in all public, indoor settings on campus.
• . There are numerous, convenient locations available in our area and beyond.
• Remember, the vaccines are safe and effective. They are among our greatest tools for fighting the pandemic and protecting ourselves, each other and our loved ones.

Vaccine strongly encouraged, not required

At this time, we do not plan to require vaccinations for students or employees this summer or fall. We do strongly encourage all Cardinals to get vaccinated. If you have questions about the vaccine, visit the or review our for answers to frequent questions such as “Will I need a booster dose?” “Do I have to quarantine following an exposure if I’m fully vaccinated?” and more. 

Thank you, again, for your continued patience as we respond to changes in CDC and state guidelines. We will continue to keep you regularly updated and remember; in addition to reviewing our FAQs, you can speak with a helpful member of our when you have questions or concerns.