Infectious Disease Protocols

Whitman College strongly encourages all Whitman students, faculty and staff to remain up to date on their COVID-19, RSV and seasonal influenza vaccinations when they become available.

• Whitman College follows the infectious disease guidelines provided by the CDC and State of Washington Department of Health for surveillance and treatment of respiratory illnesses.
• Mpox (previously known as monkeypox) has been designated a global emergency by the World Health Organization. While not extensive beyond Africa, it has been identified in other countries more recently, and very effective vaccine and mitigation efforts are available.
• Washington is experiencing a surge in pertussis (whooping cough) infections. Current TDAP vaccine can help prevent infection, and persistent cough should be evaluated for possible treatment.

The following mitigation measures are currently available to members of the Whitman community:

• The Welty Student Health Center will provide free COVID-19 symptomatic testing and masks to students, faculty and staff.
• Faculty and staff may require use of masks in their classes or office spaces.
• The Welty Student Health Center will provide seasonal flu vaccines to students, faculty and staff on a first-come, first-served basis and coordinate with local resources for additional vaccination opportunities.

Additional guidance for students:

• Measles, Mumps, and Rubella (MMR) vaccine is required of all Whitman students, and meningococcal vaccine is highly recommended (learn more). 
• Students should use infection control measures such as masking, handwashing and distancing if they develop any fever or respiratory symptoms. 
• Students should notify their professors of illness and arrange any class absences directly with instructors.
• Once they see substantial improvement in their symptoms students may return to normal activities, masking until symptoms completely resolve.

Additional guidance for faculty and staff:

• Employees should use infection control measures such as masking, handwashing and distancing if they develop any fever or respiratory symptoms. Once they have seen substantial improvement in their symptoms they may return to normal activities, masking until symptoms completely resolve.
• Employees should use sick time for days for which they are out of office, unless they are able to perform their jobs remotely.

Last updated on: February 5, 2025