NIU to Update Mask Policy Effective Feb. 28
Feb. 10, 2022
In light of the steady decline of COVID-related hospitalizations and cases throughout the state, Illinois Gov. Pritzker has articulated a plan to begin lifting current mask mandates beginning Monday, Feb. 28. Under the new guidance, individuals, regardless of vaccination status, will be required to wear masks only while in K-12 schools, on public transportation and in congregate and health care settings.
NIU Mask Requirements – Effective Monday, Feb. 28
Beginning Monday, Feb. 28, NIU students, faculty, staff and visitors will be required to wear masks ONLY in the following locations and/or circumstances until further notice:
- In-person classes, instructional laboratory spaces and campus libraries
- NIU health clinics
- Northwestern Medicine Student Health Center
- Surveillance testing locations
- Public transportation
- NIU Child and Family Development Center
Huskies are also expected to wear masks at the request of individuals when meeting in the personal work or living spaces of those individuals. For research settings, the primary investigator will make the determination if masks are required. Please remember, any member of the NIU community who prefers to continue to mask outside of the above-mentioned exceptions is welcome and encouraged to do so.
Masking Requirements for COVID-19 Exposures, Positive Test or Symptoms
Wearing a mask is required when you have been exposed, are experiencing symptoms and/or have tested positive. For more information on the requirements and instructions in these scenarios, please refer to the detailed guidance found on the Protecting the Pack website.
As always, Huskies should practice grace and not make assumptions, question, judge or discriminate against others regarding wearing masks or vaccination status.
This remains a dynamic situation, and the university will continue to update the Protecting the Pack guidelines as guidance from public health officials and the State of Illinois evolves.
