UO makes changes as COVID-19 emergency declaration ends

The federal COVID-19 public health emergency declaration will expire May 11. As a result, University of Oregon requirements and services are changing. 

The Monitoring and Assessment Program, also known as MAP, that provides free COVID-19 testing in the Eugene campus will end June 30. The last day to use its testing services is June 22. Federal funding for the program is ending, and demand for services has dropped significantly. 

Students can continue to receive testing through University Health Services when symptomatic. Employees should look to their medical provider, pharmacy or other resources within their community to meet their testing needs. 

Additionally, the university will no longer require COVID-19 vaccinations for students and employees, except for health care workers as required by the Oregon Health Authority. Individuals are highly encouraged to be up to date on their COVID-19 vaccinations, but the requirement to provide medical records or request an exemption in order to maintain enrollment or employment is discontinued, effective immediately.  

As a reminder, the UO COVID-19 leave program extended through this academic year ends on June 30, except where required by Oregon Health Authority guidelines.

The changes to COVID-related requirements and services are consistent with the university’s ongoing practice of aligning the university’s response with guidelines from federal, state and local health authorities.  

“These changes are not intended to be an indication that COVID-19 is no longer a health concern,” said Dr. Anna Heijinian, medical director at University Health Services. “Instead, COVID-19 is starting to be managed similarly to all other communicable illnesses.” 

UO community members are encouraged to help prevent the spread of illness by monitoring symptoms and staying home when they are sick. Masks also remain welcome on university campuses.