NMH Adjusts COVID-19 Protocols

Northfield Mount Hermon is adjusting its campus COVID-19 protocols in response to new developments on the federal and state levels. 

“Throughout the unprecedented COVID-19 global health crisis, NMH prioritized student and community health,” Associate Head of School Charlie Tierney and Director of Medicine Sara Rourke wrote in a letter to the community. “At every step, NMH aligned with government and expert guidance and regularly assessed our practices and guidelines relative to evolving local and regional health conditions, and we adjusted as needed. Our school community demonstrated shared sacrifice and flexibility as we all rallied and held our community safe.”

The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services has declared an end to the COVID-19 public health emergency effective May 11. That, in turn, has triggered the U.S. government and the Commonwealth of Massachusetts to adjust their recommendations. After consulting with health experts, the NMH COVID-19 Committee has announced a number of adjustments: 

• COVID-19 vaccinations are strongly encouraged but are no longer required at NMH, effective immediately.

• NMH recommends that community members and guests perform a rapid test or see a medical provider if they are experiencing symptoms of COVID-19.

• Masking is not required on campus and remains voluntary. Community members and guests are encouraged to wear a mask indoors if they have cold or flu-like symptoms, have a known COVID-19 infection and are in their isolation period, or have had a known exposure within the last 10 days.

• While visitors to campus are no longer required to mask or be screened for symptoms, they should postpone their visit if they are sick or have been exposed to COVID-19 in the past 10 days.

NMH will continue to adhere to current public health recommendations for testing and isolation. Students who test positive for COVID-19 are expected to isolate off campus (or in O’Connor Health and Wellness Center, whenever space permits). The NMH COVID-19 Committee will revisit protocols as necessary.