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COVID-19 Guidance for GW Community Members

Updated Sept. 7, 2023
 

Members of the GW community should continue to follow COVID-19 guidance from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention regarding isolation, testing, masking, vaccination and symptom monitoring, especially in cases of a positive COVID-19 test. Following this guidance helps to protect all members of our community, including those who may be at higher risk for complications.

The university’s current operations and guidance related to COVID-19 is included below. More information from the CDC is available here.

• Vaccination: The university strongly recommends but does not require vaccination for all community members. We urge everyone to stay up to date with the latest booster or new vaccination recommendations from the CDC. Community members do not need to upload vaccine documentation.
   
• Testing, contract tracing and related services: The university’s COVID-19 testing, contact tracing and related services have concluded.
   
• Masking: Masks remain optional but may be required in some spaces, such as health care facilities, at the discretion of each facility’s leadership. Even where not required, anyone is free to wear a mask if they wish.
   
• Medical advice: Students should continue to visit the Student Health Center for their medical needs, and faculty and staff should consult with their physicians. The CDC provides guidance on steps to take if exposed to COVID-19 as well as isolation and precautions for individuals with COVID-19.
   
• Monitoring: We continue to monitor the incidence of COVID-19 and will share any additional information on this site and make adjustments as needed to support the health and safety of our community.

Frequently Asked Questions

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COVID-19 Operations

Why is GW ceasing its COVID-19 operations?

Following the end of the federal government’s public health emergency and after a thorough assessment of the current state of COVID-19, the university concluded its COVID-related public health resources and services on June 1, 2023. 

What if there is another resurgence of COVID-19? 

As we have done throughout the pandemic, the university will continue to monitor federal and local guidance, research and data, and the incidence of COVID-19 on our campuses to best support the health and safety of our community.

Vaccinations

Will GW require community members to be vaccinated against COVID-19?

Vaccination is no longer required. The university will now strongly recommend vaccination for all community members.

If I am vaccinated, should I submit documentation to the university?

No, you do not need to submit documentation to the university.

Where can I get a COVID-19 vaccine? 

The bivalent vaccine is available at local pharmacies and doctors’ offices. To find one near you, visit VaccineFinder.org.

COVID-19 Testing

Is COVID-19 testing available?

COVID-19 testing is no longer available at the university. PCR testing is available through physicians' offices and local pharmacies; antigen test kits can be purchased at local pharmacies and retail stores.

Masks

Are masks required in any university-owned or -operated buildings or facilities?

Masks will remain optional but may be required in some spaces, such as health care facilities, at the discretion of each facility’s leadership.

Will masks remain available for free on campus? 

Masks are available until the university’s supply is exhausted. Masks can be purchased at local grocery stores, pharmacies and online.

Contact Tracing and Campus Support

Will the university still provide contact tracing services and COVID support? 

No, contact tracing and informational services provided by the Campus COVID-19 Support Team, as well as services provided by GW Occupational Health, ended June 1, 2023.

Where can GW community members get help with COVID-related health questions?

Students should continue to visit the Student Health Center for their medical needs, and faculty and staff should consult with their physicians.

The university strongly encourages all members of the community to follow guidance from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) regarding isolation, testing, masking, vaccination, and symptom monitoring, especially in cases of a positive COVID-19 test.

Do I need to let the university know if I test positive for COVID-19?

No, you do not need to report a positive test to the university. You should follow CDC guidance on isolation and precautions.

Campus Access

Will campus access remain tied to COVID-19 protocols?

GWorld will no longer restrict building access based on COVID-19 related protocols.

Updated 9/7/2023