Some colleges mask back up, as COVID-19 cases surge

COLUMBIA, Mo. (KMIZ)

Some universities are implementing mask mandates, in an effort to combat the rise in coronavirus cases caused primarily by the Delta variant.

The University of Missouri and Lincoln University are among the schools expected to make the move back to masks on Monday.

This comes as Missouri reports 13,193 new COVID-19 cases this week, averaging 1,885 cases per day in the state. The state's positivity rate currently sits 14.7 percent.

At the same time, only 41.3 percent of Missourians have completed vaccination, lagging behind many other states in vaccination rate.

A University of Missouri spokesperson says as of Monday, all students, faculty, staff and visitors, will be required to wear masks in classrooms and where social distancing is not possible, regardless of vaccination status.

There are some exceptions to Mizzou's requirements including not requiring masks when social distancing is possible or when alone in a workplace.

Lincoln University referenced the CDC's guidelines in their announcement, saying, "To maximize protection from the Delta variant and prevent possibly spreading it to others, wear a mask indoors in public if you are in an area of substantial or high transmission."

Mizzou says they will review this policy by Sep. 15 and both schools say they will continue to monitor both local and state trends.

The University of Missouri is also encouraging vaccination, with the chance to win discounted tuition and free parking.

The school will also request that staff, faculty and students voluntarily upload vaccination documents. The university will be hosting a variety of vaccination events for those to receive the vaccine.

Tune into ABC 17 News at 6 a.m. for a live report.