WSU students received an email Thursday morning directing them to stay at their permanent off-campus residences if possible because access to food and healthcare is limited in Pullman.

Students who are currently in Pullman or have an immediate need to return are allowed to be in Pullman, the email said. 

All students who attend WSU Pullman should fill out a survey indicating their plans following spring break, the email said. 

Kim Holapa, associate vice president of external engagement and strategic initiatives, said in an email that students returning to residence halls should “expect a modified experience from what they had before break” due to new social distancing restrictions from Gov. Jay Inslee. 

Residence Life staff will still be present in residence halls, Holapa said in the email. 

Phil Weiler, vice president of university marketing and communications, said officials believe keeping students off campus will give them better access to healthcare than they could have on campus.

Gov. Inslee put a ban on all nonessential medical procedures in Washington, so out-of-state students may be better served in their home states, Weiler said. 

Most food options and dining halls will be open after break, Holapa said. All food must be taken to-go to meet standards for social distancing.

Officials have not decided whether students who do not return to campus will receive a refund for housing or dining, Holapa said. 

Students will receive more information via WSU email as it becomes available, she said.