WKU lifts mask mandate

BOWLING GREEN, Ky. – Western Kentucky University lifted its mask mandate Friday.

Update: WKU President Timothy Caboni issued the following updated masking guidance, according to their website:

“In recent weeks, positive COVID-19 case counts declined rapidly at the national, state and local levels, with hospitalizations also decreasing. Every individual age five and older has had the opportunity to get vaccinated since November. On campus, the number of positive cases has dropped by 96.9% since the start of the semester.”

“Given these trends and in accordance with the CDC’s revised masking guidance announced this afternoon, WKU is lifting its mask requirement, effective immediately. However, the CDC’s order requiring masks on public transportation remains in effect; therefore masks continue to be required while using WKU transportation services.”

“All members of the WKU Community should continue to engage in any safety measures they feel best protect themselves, including wearing masks in all settings if they so choose. WKU’s Department of Environmental Health and Safety is offering KN95 masks to all members of the WKU Community at no cost. To request KN95 masks, email covid.help@wku.edu. Vaccination remains the most effective tool in our fight against the COVID-19 virus, and vaccines are readily available in our area, including at the Graves Gilbert Clinic on campus. And as always, individuals should stay home when sick.”