COVID-19 Masking and Testing Guidelines

Update

May 31, 2022

The number of positive COVID-19 cases in our region and on our health sciences and technology campus is continuing to increase. Thus, while we are not allowed to mandate masking, it is strongly suggested that people wear masks whenever possible while in public spaces or group settings indoors.  If you need a KN95 mask, they can be obtained at the reception desks at either building R2 or R4. The latest CDC guidelines and community COVID-19 levels are here:  https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/science/community-levels.html

Update

May 24, 2022

The COVID-19 community level is “medium” in Roanoke City, Roanoke County, and Montgomery County, which includes the Hotel Roanoke, the Roanoke-Blacksburg Regional Airport, and Virginia Tech campuses, according to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Based on that assessment, masks are not required in public indoor settings, except for health care settings, or on public transit. People may choose to mask at any time. For people at high risk for severe illness, masks are recommended. People with symptoms, a positive test, or exposure to someone with COVID-19 should wear a mask.

Update

March 11, 2022

Based on the updated assessment, masks are no longer required in public indoor settings on Virginia Tech campuses, except for health care settings and on public transit. Masks are still recommended at the Fralin Biomedical Research Institute, but not mandated.

Update

Jan. 18, 2022

Virginia Tech's employee vaccination policy has changed. In accordance with Executive Directive 2 from Gov. Glenn Youngkin, university employees are no longer required to be vaccinated, report their vaccination status to the university, or participate in mandatory testing. Testing will continue to be offered to employees on a voluntary basis.  Masking policies on campus, and requirements for attendance at public events remain in place, and all Virginia Tech COVID policies remain in full effect.

Jan. 1, 2022

In accordance with the latest guidance outlined by Virginia Tech President Tim Sands, please observe the following policies and practices while working or visiting the Fralin Biomedical Research Institute at VTC:

• A well-fitted, protective mask such as a KN95 or equivalent must be worn by everyone regardless of vaccination status while in closed settings with others, including in classrooms, lobbies, labs, conference rooms, restrooms, foyers, elevators, and other confined locations, with the exception of being alone in a private, closed office or when outside. 
• All Fralin Biomedical Research Institute employees, including faculty, staff and students, should obtain a COVID-19 booster within 14 days of their eligibility based on their last vaccination date and enter this updated information in the VT portal.  Those who are currently eligible for their booster should enter their information in the portal before Feb. 1.

• As part of Virginia Tech’s program of ongoing surveillance, employee who has not been vaccinated must be tested weekly.  Testing will be available to anyone else on a weekly basis.  Should conditions change, periodic surveillance testing of vaccinated students, faculty and staff may also be implemented. 
• Daily symptom screening will continue through the the Fralin Biomedical Research Institute web form, including for all visitors entering the buildings.