Guidance for Researchers on COVID-19

COVID-19 Exposure Guidance


If you have been exposed to COVID-19 or have any symptoms, you may need to be tested or to quarantine/isolate, or both. To learn about what you need to do, visit the Exposure & Illness Procedures page on the School of Medicine website.

Mask Requirement

Per the University’s July 26, 2021, announcement, both the Danforth and Medical campuses are reinstating indoor mask requirements in accordance with city and county mandates. Masks are again required at all indoor meetings and gatherings (regardless of size) and in public and shared spaces. Masking is required when more than one person is in a lab or a shared office.

The revised mask mandate applies to everyone, including those who are vaccinated. This change in masking requirements supersedes all previously posted guidance related to masking.

Masks are not required inside a private office or room with the door closed, or when six-foot physical distancing can be maintained while eating or drinking. Masks are encouraged but not required for outdoor activities.

For information on upgrading masks to enhance protection, visit WashU Med’s masking policies and recommendations.

Please do not come to campus if you are ill; mild symptoms similar to those of a common cold may actually be COVID-19. Call the COVID Call Center at 314-362-5056 to report symptoms or exposure and to arrange for a free test. Per the December 27 announcement, priority for testing is given to on-campus, patient-facing employees. You can learn more about Delta, Omicron and other COVID-19 variants on the CDC website.

The university will continue to monitor the situation closely and adjust policies as needed to protect the health and safety of all members of our community.

WashU COVID-19 Vaccination Policy

On June 15, 2021, a new COVID-19 Vaccination Policy was announced requiring all Washington University faculty, staff, and trainees to receive the COVID-19 vaccine. In a previous announcement to students, they were also informed of their requirement to be vaccinated before returning for the fall semester.

Contact Johnnie Cartwright, Assistant Vice Chancellor for Research & Chief of Staff (cartwrightj@wustl.edu) with additional questions and concerns not covered on this site.

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