No New Cases, Fall Break and Vaccination Clinic

Thursday, October 7, 2021

By Health Intervention and Communication Team

Public health data improved dramatically over the past week. State-wide, COVID-19 cases and hospitalizations dropped. Nationally, cases decreased. The New Jersey transmission rate is at .88, its lowest level since mid-June. All of this is highly encouraging. However, we continue to monitor public health and government guidance. We have seen how quickly the data can change, for better or worse.

No New Cases at University

Similarly, positive case levels at the University dropped significantly.

There have been no new cases since September 27.
As of October 6, the five-day moving average of positive cases is at zero (0).
No (0%) on campus quarantine and isolation beds are occupied.
There are approximately 2 individuals in isolation off-campus, significantly fewer than 26 a week ago and 75 the week before. We continue to enlist the same comprehensive testing and contact tracing protocols that identified the rise in cases in mid-September.
We have 99.6% compliance with the Confidential Vaccine Declaration and are following up with the remaining individuals, some of whom just joined our community.

This is all good news; however, with the approach of fall break, holidays, and colder weather, we remain vigilant and prepared should cases rise.

Environmental Health and Safety Actions

We share as a reminder the following classroom health and safety actions and information, guided by CDC and State of New Jersey recommendations:

The Facilities team worked through the summer to optimize and increase outside airflow, intake, and circulation in all buildings across campus and refit the ventilation systems to higher grade filters.
The team continues to conduct regular inspections and filter replacements.
There has been no evidence or documented transmission of COVID-19 in our classrooms throughout the pandemic.
Our classrooms are environmentally safe. Additionally, all students and professors must remain fully masked in classrooms, per University policy.
We remind everyone to continue the smart hygiene habits that keep each of us safe is also essential, including staying home when sick – COVID or not. The CDC provides a good reminder at Stay Home When You Are Sick.

Testing Available Through Health Services

The University is following CDC and State of New Jersey testing guidance, and Health Services has an ample amount of testing supplies. Students (vaccinated and unvaccinated) may request to be tested for COVID-19 as frequently as once per week.

You can learn more about testing availability off campus at: How To Get Tested For COVID-19 In New Jersey

Upcoming COVID and Flu Vaccination Clinic

The University is providing FREE COVID and flu vaccinations. The next clinic will take place on October 19 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. in the Richard & Sheila Regan Field House.

Bring your ID, insurance card, and vaccination card, if applicable. Please be sure to schedule an appointment before arriving, as shots will be administered by appointment only, no walk-ins. There is no cost to you with most insurance.

University Vaccination Levels Exceed Revised State of New Jersey Goal Levels

Through the Confidential Vaccine Declaration (CVD), current Seton Hall data are indicating that fall 2021 vaccination rates are near 90% for students (97% of those are fully vaccinated), 93.5% for staff and administrators (99.5% of those are fully vaccinated), 97% for faculty (99.6% of those are fully vaccinated), and 95% for adjunct faculty (99% of those are fully vaccinated). By comparison, approximately 75% of New Jerseyans over the age of 16 are vaccinated. We are particularly grateful to our students, faculty, and staff for doing their part; through their efforts, we have a highly vaccinated University community.

There are numerous benefits to getting vaccinated.

Fall Break October 11-12

In anticipation of fall break (Monday-Tuesday, October 11 & 12) we remind students who plan to travel home they can get tested before leaving campus by contacting Health Services at (973) 761-9175.

On campus or off, remember that hand washing, social distancing, and mask wearing are proven actions to keeping yourself and those around you safe.

Indoor Mask Requirement

All individuals (vaccinated and unvaccinated) are required to wear a mask at all indoor, nonresidential, on-campus University settings, except when alone or dining. This includes the University Libraries, Immaculate Conception Chapel, the Richard & Sheila Regan Field House, and all academic areas and classrooms.

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,

Matthew Borowick
Vice President of University Relations
Co-chair, Health Intervention and Communication Team

Monica N. Burnette, Ph.D.
Interim Vice President, Division of Student Services
Co-chair, Health Intervention and Communication Team

Categories: Campus Life