The University strongly urges COVID-19 vaccination for students, faculty or staff. The University does not require students, faculty or staff to reveal whether they have been fully vaccinated.

COVID-19
Western Michigan University is returning to near-normal operations for the remainder of the 2021-22 academic year. We're offering a robust on-campus environment with a wide array of learning, living and cocurricular opportunities.
Throughout the semester, it is our goal to keep you informed of any and all changes that may affect your campus experience. While we will continue to update you via email and social media, you may also check back here for timely updates.
Announcements
Announcements
Classroom masking ends May 6, masks no longer required on buses
On April 20, 2022, President Montgomery announced masking in indoor instructional spaces will end on May 6. Additionally, a federal mandate requiring masking on public transportation is no longer in effect, so masks are now optional on Metro Transit buses serving WMU.
Ending required testing, badging, health survey and physical distancing
On March 25, 2022, President Montgomery announced mandated COVID-19 testing, the daily health survey, the badging system and physical distancing are no longer required beginning Monday, March 28.
Campus messages
Throughout the COVID-19 pandemic, the University has shared timely updates and announcements related to COVID-19 and vaccination protocol and procedure.
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Get boosted
Stay up to date on your vaccination by getting a booster dose when eligible.
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COVID-19 dashboard
Keep up to date with the University's COVID-19 vaccination rate.
Western COVID-19 protocols
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Questions?
Stop the spread
To prevent the spread of COVID-19:
- Get vaccinated.
- If you have symptoms, get tested. Follow the CDC's protocols for quarantine and isolation.
- Stay home and avoid close contact with people when you are sick, except to get medical care.
- Cover your cough or sneeze with a tissue, then throw the tissue in the trash.
- Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds.
- Consider your individual health situation.
Vaccination
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Get vaccinated
Vaccines are widely available both on and off campus and are free of charge regardless of your health insurance or immigration status.
Campus response
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Getting around campus and town
Metro Transit routes will be adjusted as needed based on usage, safety considerations and budget.
Public health guidance
The CDC updated public health guidance on Feb. 25, 2022. The University is currently in the process of what is hoped to be endemic planning in light of the agency’s update.
Review public health guidance and WMU protocols
Contingency planning
Faculty and instructors who teach in-person and hybrid courses are encouraged to develop a transition plan in the event that WMU, in consultation with local public health officials or by government directive, must transition to distance education delivery. An effective plan is student-centered, can be available within a 48-hour period after the announcement and contains, at minimum, these elements:
An introductory module with the revised syllabus and schedule, as well as links to Help Hub, instructions for joining online office hours and, if applicable, synchronous Webex or Microsoft Teams sites.
Dropbox folders for assignments.
A gradebook.
WMUx offers a variety of ways that instructors can access assistance as they create their transition plans. Go to wmich.edu/x to learn more.
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Still not vaccinated?
Vaccines are widely available both on and off campus and are free of charge regardless of your health insurance or immigration status.
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Traveling internationally?
If you're traveling to Western from outside the U.S., you’ll need to follow some additional guidelines before returning to campus.
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Looking for assistance?
As we navigate this year, Western is prepared to guide you to success. We encourage you to reach out for help and support one another.