Updated January 4, 2022

To ensure a consistent voice across the Institute in all communications related to Covid-19 and our road to recovery, we ask that you follow the AP Coronavirus Topical Guide. There are, however, some cases where our usage reflects what has been established as the Institute's preference. So be sure to follow the guidance as listed below — even when contrary to AP's recommendations.

• asymptomatic
  Not considered jargon. Acceptable for use.
• cancel, canceled, canceling
  Do not use two l's.
• Covid-19
  Do not use all caps.
• delta variant
  Do not capitalize.
• disinfect
  Use in place of "sanitize" when referring to objects and surfaces.
• face covering and mask
  Use "face covering" or "cloth face covering" to refer to PPE that is washable and
  reusable. Use "mask" to refer to single-use surgical face masks and N95
  respirators, which are critical supplies that should be reserved for healthcare
  workers and first responders.
• frontline
  As an adjective, one word. As a noun, two words (e.g., "on the front line").
• Governor's Covid-19 Task Force
  Proper name; always use title case, making sure to capitalize "Governor's."
• handwashing
  One word, no hyphen.
• healthcare
  One word, no hyphen.
• isolate/isolation and quarantine
  Use "isolate" to refer to separating people who are sick from Covid-19 from
  people who are not. Use "quarantine" to refer to separating and restricting the
  movement of people who were exposed to Covid-19 to see if they become ill.
  Note: These should not be used interchangeably, or used synonymously with
  "stay at home" or "lockdown."
• omicron variant
  Do not capitalize.
• PPE
  Acronym for "personal protective equipment," acceptable to use on second
  reference.
• preventive
  Use instead of "preventative."
• return to campus plan/planning
  Do not hyphenate.
• social distancing and physical distancing
  Both are acceptable and have the same meaning, though "social distancing" is
  more common.
• touch points
  Two words, not hyphenated.
• vaccine, vaccination
  Use "vaccine" to refer to the product that helps protect against a specific virus or other germ. Use "vaccination" to refer to the act of giving a vaccine.