Brown no longer requires the COVID-19 vaccination for most faculty, staff, students and visitors. Even so, Brown strongly recommends that individuals obtain the vaccines for which they are eligible, and the University strives to provide them whenever possible and appropriate to faculty, staff and students. More information is available on the Vaccinations page.

Masks are optional on Brown’s campus. However, wearing a mask is recommended when an individual has active respiratory symptoms (e.g. fever, runny nose, cough, sore throat), or if they are not up to date with vaccinations and have had recent close contact with someone who has tested positive for COVID-19, the flu, or RSV. Please note that clinicians, faculty, staff or student instructors may continue to require masking at their discretion.

Brown's Health & Wellness Center has adopted a mask-optional policy. Masks are recommended when an individual has active respiratory symptoms (e.g. fever, runny nose, cough, sore throat), or if they are not up to date with vaccinations and have had a recent close contact with someone who has tested positive for COVID-19. This approach follows CDC recommendations and is consistent with policies in health care facilities in Rhode Island and the surrounding area. The Health & Wellness Center will continue to have masks available for clinicians and students to wear during appointments. In addition, faculty, staff and students are encouraged to maintain a personal supply of masks and tests in the event of COVID-19 exposure or to self-test if experiencing symptoms. These health supplies continue to be readily available at local markets and pharmacies.

Carry an approved mask at all times and respect personal choices: Brown community members should carry a well-fitting KN95, KF94, N95 or disposable/surgical mask at all times in case a situation arises where a mask is required (such as a host’s preference at a meeting or other situation listed above). We also encourage all students, staff and faculty to wear a mask whenever you choose to do so and for any reason (including personal and community protection against seasonal flu and colds). This personal choice should be respected. As with vaccination status, no one should ask another individual about their personal choice to wear a mask.