Coronavirus Update

April 8, 2022

BSU Updates COVID-19 Protocols

As the world reopens, Bowie State University will move forward cautiously in an effort to keep the our community safe and healthy. BSU has diligently managed COVID exposure on campus over the course of the pandemic. The university has established a solid foundation of COVID protocols that we can now modify and maintain diligence through self-responsibility. The fact that we have maintained a positivity rate of less than 1% for the majority of the spring semester as shown in the graph below, provides a solid basis for beginning to relax some of our protocols.

Chart show Covid positivity rates for spring 2022

COVID-19 Protocols Beginning April 11

The following protocols will be implemented across campus as long as a positivity rate of 2% or lower is maintained.

  1. Masks optional on campus (except in medical locations
  2. Testing protocols remain the same until end of semester (vaccinated test once/month and exempt test twice/week
  3. Event capacities will increase. Proof of vaccinations or a green badge will be required for indoor event
  4. Residential halls with 95% booster rate can resume inter-hall visitation with guidance from Residence Life.
  5. Badging will not be required to enter student’s own residence hall. Residence Life will provide further information.
  6. Daily symptom screening remains a requirement for all members of the campus community. Ask yourself daily if you are having COVID-like symptoms. It is your responsibility to stay home if you are ill and report symptoms through the tracker to initiate Wellness Center contact tracing.
  7. If you are ill or have been exposed to COVID-19, it is your responsibility to get tested and isolate. Isolation for five days is required with a positive test. Testing options include:
    • Self-test (tests available at Student Center’s Ticket Booth 9-3 and Campus Police office in McKeldin Gym)
    • Wellness Center Testing in Library 8 a.m. - 3:30 p.m.
    • Local pharmacy
    • Doctor’s office
    • Note: Wear a mask if you have symptoms

Individual Choice, Individual Responsibility, Protection for All

We understand that some people may be more comfortable continuing to wear a mask when in the presence of others. This individual choice should be respected as well as requests from colleagues to mask up in certain situations. Respect for individual choice and doing your part to protect your own health will become the driving factors to keep our vaccinated community safe in this new phase of the pandemic.

We are all responsible for keeping our community safe. It is a joint effort to be socially responsible for each other.

As we cautiously move forward into this new phase of the pandemic, we will remain vigilant to monitor for changes in the campus, Prince George’s County and state of Maryland and be prepared to adjust if needed. Please monitor your email for updates and regularly check the Coronavirus Information webpage for the latest information. If you have questions, please email covid19@bowiestate.edu.