Returning to Normal, Staying Safe From COVID-19.

As life across the University returns to normal, getting vaccinated remains the best way to protect yourself and your community from COVID-19 and its variants.

The CDC recommends that everyone ages 5 and older get their primary series of COVID-19 vaccine, and receive a booster when eligible.. To be considered “fully vaccinated,” a person must have all primary doses of the COVID-19 vaccine. The CDC classifies anyone’s (ages 12 and up) vaccination status as “up to date” if they have all their primary doses along with a booster dose when eligible.

Currently, the Pfizer-BioNTech vaccine is the only one authorized for children ages 5-17. 

While mask restrictions are being lifted, wearing a face covering is still an effective way to prevent infection from the COVID-19 virus along with vaccination.

If you are feeling ill and experience symptoms of fever, cough or other symptoms, it is recommended to quarantine and/or isolate at home, except to get medical care, until tested for COVID-19.

If you are seeking testing sites or COVID-19 data in your area, visit the WV DHHR COVID-19 dashboard or the CDC website to help you remain safe and vigilant.

Common Questions About the Vaccine

With increasing hospitalizations across the state due to COVID-19, three WVU experts answer common questions about the safety of the vaccine and how to best protect yourself and others.

Play The Science of mRNA Vaccines
The Science of mRNA Vaccines

Public Health and Safety

Here's how to protect yourself and others.

Get vaccinated.

Getting vaccinated is the best way to protect yourself and others. Vaccination prevents severe illness, hospitalizations, and death. Unvaccinated people are strongly encouraged to get the vaccine and continue masking until they are fully vaccinated.

Watch the “Three Cs” — close, continuous contact with others; crowds; and, close spaces.

Maintaining physical distance of 6 feet can reduce transmission of the virus.

Wear a mask or face covering that covers your mouth and nose.

Dr. Kathy Moffett explains why it’s important to wear your mask or face covering and how to properly put them on.

The spread of COVID-19 can be controlled when 80% of a population wears face coverings and face masks properly.

Keep your environment and your hands clean.

Wash your hands for at least 20 seconds with soap and warm water or use hand sanitizer when touching public surfaces. Humming the chorus of "Take Me Home, Country Roads" is an easy way to estimate.

  • Do not touch your mouth, nose or eyes, which can introduce the virus.
  • Cover your face when sneezing or coughing (even when wearing a mask).
  • Limit touching shared surfaces to reduce the spread of the virus.

Podcast

WVU and the Coronavirus

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Information from Spring 2020

All information listed below is relevant to the 2020 Spring Semester.