Information for the HGSE Community
With the guidance of public health experts who have advised Harvard University throughout the coronavirus pandemic, the university has streamlined its COVID-19 resources under the central umbrella of Harvard University Health Services (HUHS).
Please visit the Harvard University Health Services COVID-19 information center for up-to-date policies, including vaccination requirements.
Staying Healthy
HGSE community members are encouraged to take the individual steps and precautions that can protect you, your colleagues, and your loved ones against COVID-19 and other circulating respiratory illnesses. These steps include masking, hand washing, flu and COVID-19 vaccination, testing, and avoiding others / staying home when feeling ill.
Wearing a face covering remains a valuable and effective method of preventing respiratory infection. Though no longer mandatory on Harvard’s campus, voluntary masking is encouraged in crowded settings and when rates of virus transmission are high.
Community members are also encouraged to make use of antigen tests, especially If you plan to attend crowded indoor gatherings. Learn more about obtaining free antigen tests as a student in the Student Health Insurance Plan or an employee with the University’s Express Scripts program.
If You Test Positive
Students and employees who test positive for COVID-19 should follow the testing and isolation guidance from Harvard University Health Services, which is based on guidance from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Medical questions should be directed to your primary care provider. There is no need to report a positive test to HUHS.
Students who test positive for COVID-19: Visit HUHS's testing and isolation page for guidance. Speak with your faculty members to arrange accommodations, as with any other illness. Connect with the Office of Student Affairs for help navigating related questions.
Employees who test positive for COVID-19: Visit HUHS's testing and isolation page for guidance. Notify your manager of a positive test result and your anticipated return-to-work date. Employees and managers should work together following standard HR policies.
Vaccination Requirements
Harvard University requires COVID-19 vaccination for all community members working and studying on campus.
For students: Harvard requires all students to be up-to-date on their COVID-19 vaccinations including the bivalent Omicron-specific COVID-19 booster.
For employees: New employees will be required to provide proof of primary series COVID-19 vaccination. Harvard recommends that all employees adhere to CDC vaccination guidance.