IUP Requiring Masks For Indoor Public Spaces

By: KDKA-TV News Staff

INDIANA, Pa. (KDKA) - IUP is requiring everyone to wear masks indoors in public spaces on campus regardless of vaccination status.

The new mask policy went into effect Tuesday morning. IUP says masking outdoors won't be required, and at this time, neither will indoor social distancing.

COVID Update: IUP will require everyone to wear masks in indoor public spaces, regardless of their vaccination status. This means vaccinated students and faculty will need to wear masks in face-to-face classes. More details are available on our website: https://t.co/qmlYD1DgQx pic.twitter.com/f7QyM2pBsE
— Indiana University of Pennsylvania (@IUPedu) August 16, 2021

The university pointed to the CDC's guidance for colleges and Indiana County's lower vaccination rate as reasons for the decision. Citing CDC data, IUP says Indiana County's vaccination rate among adults is 35% compared to the state's average of 53% and the national average of 51%.

IUP says while it can't legally require COVID-19 vaccinations, it's joining other state schools and the State System of Higher Education Board of Governors in strongly encouraging people to get vaccinated.

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