COVID Vaccination & Prevention

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COVID vaccination: recommended but not required

Effective beginning May 20, 2023, Cornell no longer requires students or employees to be vaccinated against COVID-19 and/or obtain a medical or religious exemption. [See the university's April 28 announcement here]

Students are still strongly encouraged to follow CDC guidelines for staying up-to-date with COVID-19 vaccination. Vaccination continues to be an important part of Cornell's strategy to keep our campuses safe and provide protection against severe disease.

New incoming students who have received their COVID vaccination(s) are encouraged to upload documentation through myCornellHealth as part of their New Student Health Requirements process.  

How to get a COVID vaccination or booster

Getting vaccinated at Cornell Health 

Cornell Health providers COVID vaccination and boosters for students for no charge. We are currently providing Moderna vaccinations and boosters, including the updated bivalent vaccine targeting both the original strain of the coronavirus and the newer omicron BA.4 and BA.5 subvariants. 

To schedule a vaccination appointment, call 607-255-5155.

Other vaccination providers

Moderna and Pfizer vaccinations and boosters are available at many local pharmacies and providers. Find a local vaccination provider.

Masking & other prevention strategies

Wearing a mask while indoors reduces the risk of contracting or spreading COVID-19. While masking is no longer required, individuals who are concerned about the risk of infection are encouraged to wear a mask, especially when in crowded indoor public settings. 

You should also wear a mask around others if you have COVID-19 and are unable to separate from others, or you're recovering from COVID but no longer isolating. (See information for COVID-positive individuals here.)

Where to get masks: Masks are available at the Robert Purcell Community Center, South Campus Service Centers, Hasbrouck Community Center, West Campus House Offices, Willard Straight Hall, Morrison Dining, North Star Dining Room, Risley Dining Room, Trillium, and any university library.

Other prevention strategies: 

  • Practice physical distancing and minimize close contact with people who are sick, especially when indoors.
  • Wash your hands often or use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol if washing is not an option.
  • Stay home and avoid contact with others when you are sick; call ahead before seeking medical care at Cornell Health or elsewhere.
  • Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth.
  • Cover your cough or sneeze with a tissue, then throw the tissue in the trash.

What to do if you're feeling ill

If you are experiencing symptoms of COVID-19, including fever, cough or shortness of breath, please wear a mask and pick up an antigen test kit. Students with severe symptoms should contact Cornell Health at 607-255-5155 (24/7) for consultation.

See information about what to do if you test positive for COVID.

Resources for support

Refer to these resources if you need support or information related to the Daily Check, your health, isolation, academics, or travel.