Purdue University announced multiple COVID-19 measures Wednesday, ranging from required face coverings in common areas on campus to the formation of a new team tasked with putting novel coronavirus policies in place.
Pending approval by the school’s board of trustees, anyone entering a campus building must wear a face covering in public areas and hallways, and in offices -- and outdoors -- where six feet of social distance is not possible. The new rule will go into effect Tuesday, May 26; those who do not comply could face disciplinary action.
The Protect Purdue implementation team will take over from the Safe Campus Task Force, with seven areas of focus -- learning and instruction, residential life, research, buildings and infrastructure, health monitoring and surveillance, human resources, and communications. Purdue also announced the appointment of a medical advisory team.
One of the initial COVID-19 policies approved by trustees was a requirement for an influenza vaccination. Once flu vaccines are available, faculty, staff, and students are expected to obtain the vaccine within 30 days. However, the school will now allow exemptions for “medical and religious” purposes.
Purdue has also developed a required COVID-19 safety training program for students, employees, and visitors.