Harvard University announced that it ended its COVID-19 vaccine mandate.
The university’s website now reads, “Harvard University Health Services (HUHS) will no longer require students to receive the COVID-19 vaccine.”
“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.”
“HUHS considers state and federal guidance, along with advice from the University’s public health experts, in responding to COVID-19,” it continues. “We will continue to monitor public health data and will periodically review requirements.”
Several weeks ago, Harvard said it was keeping its vaccine requirement.
Medical freedom organization No College Mandates shared the news on X, writing, “BREAKING NEWS @Harvard ends their C19 vaccine requirement for students retracting their announcement several weeks ago that students only would still be mandated to take it for fall 2024 enrollment.”
The news follows the CDC publishing updated guidelines for COVID-19, treating the virus as the flu.
The new guidance tells people to stay home if they are sick, but when they are feeling better and have been fever-free for 24 hours, they can return to school or work.
“Our goal here is to protect those at risk for severe illness while also reassuring folks that these recommendations are simple, clear, easy-to-understand and can be followed,” CDC director Mandy Cohen said.
