COVID Update – April 11, 2022

Dear FSU Community,

I'm writing to provide some updates regarding COVID-19 mitigation efforts. Since relaxing some of our rules around testing and facemasks, I'm happy to report that our positivity rate on campus has remained low and not shown signs of increasing. Cases nationwide and in the Commonwealth are on the rise as the more contagious Omicron B.A2 variant spreads, so we continue to keep a close eye on the latest trends and will adjust our strategy as needed. Below are a few important updates:

  • Testing times and dates have changed and are now offered on Monday & Thursday 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. each week (except for next week due to the Patriot's day holiday, testing will be on Tuesday, April 19 9:30-2:30).
  • Students and employees who are NOT required to participate in asymptomatic testing are still encouraged to do so especially due to increasing cases within Massachusetts.
  • Effective April 15, Whittemore Library will become mask optional in most common areas. The Library will preserve a designated mask mandatory space in the quiet study room located toward the back of the library on the first floor next to the printers. All classrooms in the library remain mask mandatory.
  • Masks remain required in classes until further notice (likely the end of the term).
  • Students' who have not obtained the booster and are eligible to do so are risking the loss of their summer and fall courses since they will not be permitted to attend if their boosters are not up-to-date this semester.
  • The Health Center will resume its practice of notifying individuals in classes where someone has tested positive to allow students or faculty seeking testing to do so if they choose.
  • The large tent is back up on Larned Beach – we hope you enjoy this outdoor space.

Javier Cevallos, Ph.D.
President