HIGHLAND HEIGHTS, Ky. — Northern Kentucky University (NKU) announced it is requiring masks indoors on campus for everyone, regardless of vaccination status. The requirement will take effect Wednesday, Aug. 4.
What You Need To Know
- NKU will require masks indoors on campus for everyone
- The requirement takes effect Wednesday, Aug. 4
- The university is providing reusable masks to all faculty, staff and students
- NKU is strongly encouraging COVID-19 vaccinations
In a letter to campus, Provost and Executive Vice President for Academic Affairs Matt Cecil said NKU had no choice but to require masks, "Given the high level of community spread of the delta variant and the relatively low level of fully vaccinated individuals in our region." NKU is located in Campbell County, which has a roughly 58% vaccination rate, according to state data.
Cecil said the university is providing reusable masks to all faculty, staff and students.
NKU is strongly encouraging people to get a COVID-19 vaccination,Cecil added.
"The current growth in infections underscores the urgency of increasing the number of vaccinated individuals in our region," he wrote. "The vaccines are safe and effective in preventing serious disease. Please get vaccinated if you have not done so already."
Campbell County has an incidence rate of roughly 13 new cases per 100,000 people as of Aug. 2, according to state data, making it an "orange" county.
NKU Health, Counseling and Student Wellness has vaccines available free of charge, and Kentucky residency is not required. You can call 859-572-5650 or email hcsw@nku.edu for an appointment.