Harvard University has decided to lift its mandate for all students to receive a full course of the COVID-19 vaccine.
This week, Harvard University Health Services announced on its website that students would no longer be required to get vaccinated to attend the university. However, it strongly advised wearing a “high-quality” face mask to protect against infectious diseases.
“Harvard University Health Services (HUHS) will no longer require students to receive the COVID-19 vaccine,” the statement read. “We strongly recommend that all members of the Harvard community stay up-to-date on COVID-19 vaccines, including boosters if eligible.”
“Additionally, we continue to emphasize the benefits of wearing a high-quality face mask in crowded indoor settings and remaining at home if unwell,” it continued.
“HUHS considers state and federal guidance, along with advice from the University’s public health experts, in responding to COVID-19. We will continue to monitor public health data and will periodically review requirements,” according to the announcement.
After the Biden administration ended the public health emergency in May of last year, the university no longer mandated COVID-19 boosters for students. However, it still required them to provide proof of their initial vaccination.
Harvard was among the many higher education institutions that sought to persuade their students to get vaccinated, even though there was no evidence that vaccines effectively prevented virus transmission.
Last week, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) lowered the severity classification of the Chinese coronavirus to be on par with the flu, calling for a “unified approach” to managing such infections.
CDC Director Dr. Mandy Cohen said that the announcement “reflects the progress we have made in protecting against severe illness from COVID-19.”
“However, we still must use the commonsense solutions we know work to protect ourselves and others from serious illness from respiratory viruses—this includes vaccination, treatment, and staying home when we get sick,” she added.
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