Dear Campus Community,
As we head into the first block break of this academic year, I am mindful that there has been anxiety and confusion about our COVID policies and practices. So, I am reaching out to offer some information and resources.
The
COVID-19 webpage is the go-to resource for all campus COVID-19 protocols; it includes the latest
CC COVID-19 dashboards, updated weekly. As you’re making decisions about your behaviors — to mask or not, to attend group events indoors, etc. — this dashboard is useful. You can see a graphic with the trajectory of cases, what the level of COVID transmission is in the county, and other key data points. This resource can help you take the precautions you deem appropriate.
Our campus masking policy has returned to mask optional. However, anyone can wear a mask at any time — to protect themselves, as well as to protect those around them. Properly fitted N95 or KN95 masks remain an effective tool for preventing COVID-19 transmission.
At this time, we are focusing our COVID testing efforts on symptomatic testing and post-exposure testing. It is recommended that anyone who has been exposed to a person with a confirmed positive COVID-19 should test five to seven days post-exposure, and students can pick up test kits at the Wellness Resource Center (230 Yalich Student Services Center).
Anyone experiencing COVID-like symptoms, no matter how mild, is asked to please stay home and away from others. Remember that there are a lot of
similarities between the symptoms of COVID and other illnesses like flu, strep throat, and the common cold. All these illnesses can be highly contagious and can cause disruption of individual’s daily lives, as well as disruption to classroom instruction. As always, please self-monitor symptoms and seek care from your health provider if needed. Always wear a mask if you’re feeling unwell or during an isolation period. If you are experiencing symptoms, remember to:
- Stay home and wear a mask if you must be around others.
- Contact the Student Health Center who can help you determine appropriate testing and treatment.
- NCAA Student-Athletes should contact Rich Bennett, associate athletic director for sport performance and wellness, with questions on COVID protocols that are also informed by NCAA recommendations.
Taking these steps not only prevents the spread of COVID-19, but other illnesses, too, and helps prevent disruption to your engagement as a student and to your academic experience.
Wishing you a restful block break,
Heather L. Horton, Ph.D.
Senior Director of Student Health and Wellbeing
