Updated guidance on COVID-19 and other respiratory illnesses

As of February 4, 2025, Stanford University has updated policies and guidance for managing COVID-19, influenza, and other respiratory illnesses, based on recommendations from the university’s Public Health Steering Committee and in accordance with California Department of Public Health guidelines.

Faculty, staff and postdocs are no longer required to report their positive COVID-19 test via Health Check. Absence reporting and return-to-work will be coordinated using the same process as absences due to other infectious illnesses. Health Check will be retired after February 28, 2025. 

Masking is no longer required in most spaces. However, it is strongly recommended to mask when ill with respiratory symptoms. CDC recommends that individuals recovering from a respiratory illness mask around others for 5 days after fever resolution. Learn more here about face mask provision at Stanford. Per County of Santa Clara Public Health Order, masking is required in patient care areas of healthcare delivery facilities through March 31st.

Find more information from Vaden Health Services on staying healthy during cold and flu season, and guidance for when you are sick, here.