In light of the ongoing Covid-19 pandemic, colleges and universities across the country are taking proactive measures to mitigate the spread of the virus and ensure the safety of their students, faculty, and staff. James Madison University (JMU), located in Harrisonburg, Virginia, is no exception. In fact, JMU has implemented a unique approach to Covid-19 prevention – the “Stop the Spread” agreement.

The “Stop the Spread” agreement is a pledge that all JMU students, faculty, and staff are required to sign in order to participate in any on-campus activities during the Fall 2021 semester. The agreement outlines a series of guidelines and protocols that must be followed in order to prevent the spread of Covid-19 on campus.

First and foremost, the agreement mandates that all individuals on campus must wear a face covering in all indoor public spaces, including classrooms, residence halls, and dining areas. Additionally, the agreement requires that individuals practice physical distancing by maintaining a distance of at least six feet from others whenever possible.

The “Stop the Spread” agreement also emphasizes the importance of personal hygiene. Individuals are encouraged to wash their hands frequently with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, or to use hand sanitizer when hand-washing is not possible. Additionally, individuals are advised to avoid touching their face, eyes, nose, and mouth.

Perhaps most importantly, the “Stop the Spread” agreement requires that all JMU community members participate in Covid-19 testing and contact tracing efforts. Testing is available on campus at no cost to students, faculty, and staff, and results are typically available within 24-48 hours. Contact tracing efforts are also in place to identify and isolate individuals who may have been exposed to the virus.

Overall, the “Stop the Spread” agreement serves as an important reminder of the ongoing threat of Covid-19 and the importance of individual responsibility in preventing its spread. By following these guidelines and protocols, individuals can do their part to keep themselves and others safe and healthy. As the Fall 2021 semester begins, JMU and other colleges and universities will continue to monitor the situation and adjust their policies as needed to ensure the safety and well-being of their communities.