New data shows that the Delta variant of the novel coronavirus (COVID-19) can spread more quickly, cause more severe illness, and can be transmitted by and to vaccinated individuals.  Given this, the CDC is recommending that both vaccinated and unvaccinated individuals wear masks in public indoor spaces, particularly in counties of high or substantial transmission. Oregon Health Authority (OHA) is also recommending masks in public indoor spaces.  Governor Kate Brown has indicated that masks will be required in K-12 schools.

In Oregon, OHA is reporting more than 1,000 new cases a day for the first time in months; the majority of those cases are due to the more virulent Delta variant.  Benton County is identified of an area of substantial transmission.

Despite this, Oregon State University has only "recommended," not required, face coverings in public indoor settings on campus.  This recommendation has no force behind it and is unlikely to change the behavior of those who don't want to wear masks.  For example, faculty and staff are NOT permitted to require face coverings be worn in their private offices, but are expected to return to in person work on campus.  

COVID-19 continues to be a severe and increasing danger due to the Delta variant. At this point approximately 50% of individuals in Oregon ages 19-29 are vaccinated; further, the variant allows transmission between vaccinated individuals and increases the risk that community members will bring home the virus to vulnerable others in their household. 

We call upon the administration to re-institute the requirement for face coverings in all public indoor settings at OSU in order to protect our faculty, staff, students and their families and loved ones, as well as limiting community spread to the rest of Benton County!