MILWAUKEE, (CBS 58) -- Starting March 19, students, employees and visitors will no longer be required to wear masks on campus.

The change comes in response to declining COVID-19 numbers as well as high vaccination rates across UW schools, including UWM.

Despite the decision to rescind mask mandates, the university is strongly recommending people to wear them inside public spaces on campus.

Certain campus buildings like the Norris Health Center, the Children's Learning Center, health care professional training programs and UWM campus shuttles, will continue to require masks.

Masks will still be available for people encouraged to wear.

COVID-19 testing will still to be required for unvaccinated students and staff and will also be available on a voluntary basis until at least April 1.