Is your mask up to snuff? Fresno State requiring surgical or KN95 masks when campus reopens

Students at Fresno State will be required to wear masks — surgical grade or KN95 — when they return to in-person classes Jan 31.

The university announced the new rule in a letter to faculty, staff and students on Tuesday, saying it was based “on updated guidance from public health experts about the high transmissibility of the Omicron variant.”

The masking requirement begins Jan. 18 and applies to all students, faculty and staff, regardless of vaccination status.

There is currently no end date for the new rule, said Lisa Boyles Bell, the university’s public information officer.

Free surgical-grade masks will be available at various sites around campus including the Student Health Center, the Atrium, University Warehouse, Student Recreation Center, Library and the USU.

This is the latest change at the university in response to the COVID-19 surge sparked by the omicron variant.

Last week, Fresno State joined other California State Universities in moving most of its classes online for at least the start of the semester, which begins Jan. 20.

The campus, including the library and student union, will remain open for certain classes and for students without Internet access.

The university has said it is adding support for rapid antigen testing and working to increase vaccination rates including boosters, for those on campus. The unvaccinated are required to do weekly, mandatory testing.

This story was originally published January 12, 2022 at 11:17 AM.