Dear Members of the Fordham Community,

This is always an exciting and intensely social time of year—we are a community of almost 25,000 people, many of whom live on or near campus, which makes preventing the spread of respiratory illnesses important. These include COVID, influenza (flu), and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), a common respiratory virus that can be serious for infants and older adults.

Fordham will be closely watching any reported cases of all three viruses—especially COVID—and will adjust our policies as necessary to protect the health of the community. This spring, the University ended its COVID vaccine mandate, as new variants of the virus greatly reduced the effectiveness of vaccines to reduce the spread of disease. But vaccines continue to provide meaningful levels of protection for individuals themselves from serious illness. The University strongly recommends everyone receive this year’s updated COVID (and flu and RSV) vaccines, and of course, observe the normal precautions for respiratory illnesses.

Students, faculty, and staff are allowed and encouraged to wear masks indoors in crowded spaces. University Health Services (UHS) has testing available in the office for symptomatic students, just call and make an appointment (Rose Hill: 718-817-4160, Lincoln Center: 212-636-7160). Employees who have COVID symptoms should consult with their healthcare providers. New York City offers free COVID testing and treatment.

The University has updated the website with current COVID guidance. Though the pandemic is largely behind us, the danger is not over. Fordham will remain alert and responsive to public health guidance, and we ask that members of our community continue to protect each other with respect and empathy. 

Thank you in advance for your vigilance and cooperation.