Masking Requirements, Contact Tracing and Quarantine  

We are closely monitoring the spread of the virus and any changing government guidance as the Delta variant has become the dominant strain in New Jersey. Governor Murphy and the NJ Department of Health continue to remind people that this iteration is “a pandemic of the unvaccinated.”

There are numerous benefits to getting vaccinated. Vaccines are free, widely available, and effective. We strongly encourage you to get vaccinated.

The Washington Post recently ran the following article: All about your coronavirus vaccine card (and what to do if you lose it).

Masking Requirements

As noted in previous HICT updates, we continue to reopen our campuses consistent with State of New Jersey guidance. Faculty, students, staff, and administrators who have reported through the Confidential Vaccine Declaration that they are fully vaccinated are not required to wear a mask or practice social distancing indoors on each campus and at indoor, off-campus University activities. However, they are welcome to wear a mask if they choose.

Faculty, students, staff, and administrators who have not reported on the Confidential Vaccine Declaration, or have reported being less than fully vaccinated, or reported they are seeking an exemption, must wear a mask indoors on each campus and at indoor, off-campus University activities.

Guests, visitors, vendors, and others who are not fully vaccinated are required to wear a mask indoors on each campus and at indoor, off-campus University activities. Those who are fully vaccinated are welcome to wear a mask if they choose.

Enforcement is via the honor code.

Contact Tracing and Quarantine

The University continues to conduct contact tracing in coordination with local health officials. Contacts claiming to be vaccinated may be asked to provide their vaccination cards in the contact tracing process.

Remember, per the CDC, people who have been in close contact with someone who has COVID-19 are not required to quarantine if they have been fully vaccinated against the disease and show no symptoms. Unvaccinated close contacts will be required to quarantine.

It’s another reason to get vaccinated.

The CDC provides additional information

• Families with Vaccinated and Unvaccinated Members
• When You Can be Around Others After You Had or Likely Had COVID-19
• When to Quarantine If You Are Fully Vaccinated
• Isolate If You Are Sick

University Vaccination Levels

Governor Murphy noted the State exceeded its vaccination goal, which has led to the elimination of most pandemic restrictions. Through the Confidential Vaccine Declaration the University is gaining a clear picture of vaccination levels across its populations. As of July 13, 2021:

Notice of the declaration requirement was sent to 14,007 individuals. 87.6% of the recipients responded. 76.2% report being fully vaccinated. 3.7% report having received the first of two injections. 5.7% plan to get vaccinated. 14.3% report they will be seeking an exemption. We will continue to update you on the declaration. Please remember it is imperative and required that you complete the declaration. Thank you to all who have already done so.

Students May Upload Vaccine Information

Several students have asked to upload their COVID-19 vaccination cards on the student Health Portal. Students may voluntarily upload their vaccination cards.

You may also access further information at:
https://www.shu.edu/health-services/requirements.cfm

Taking Care of Yourself and Others

Better days are ahead. But they are not here yet. Please continue to do your part. Do not let your guard down. Do not fall victim to pandemic fatigue.

This includes continuing the smart hygiene habits that keep each of us safe. This includes staying home when sick – COVID or not. The CDC provides a good reminder at Stay Home When You Are Sick.

Return to Campus "Frequently Asked Questions" for Employees

Updated Frequently Asked Questions and answers have been posted on the Department of Human Resources website in response to questions from the University community. A direct link may be accessed at https://www.shu.edu/human-resources/employee-resource-center.cfm.

Remaining Vigilant and Prepared

While we do not know what circumstances the virus will throw at us next, we remain prepared. Our environmental health and safety protocols – created in consultation with numerous health and higher education experts – enable us to adapt to the rapidly changing situation. We remain in contact with local, state, and national health officials.

Please know that all we say and do is with your safety – and that of our entire University community – foremost in mind. We persevered through the challenges of 2020. We continue to move, Hazard Zet Forward, through 2021. We are in this together.

Your health and safety remain paramount in Seton Hall’s planning and actions. If you have questions, comments, or suggestions, please contact the HICT here.

Sincerely,

Shawna Cooper-Gibson, Ed.D.
Vice President of Student Services

Matthew Borowick
Vice President of University Relations

Co-chairs, Health Intervention and Communication Team

Categories: Health and Medicine