Omicron Variant Concerns Increase, Get Your Booster
Thursday, December 9, 2021
Last week we announced that all faculty, students, staff and administrators should now upload their vaccination information.
We are pleased to report that 54% of our community’s vaccination cards have been uploaded and verified (reviewed) with another 8% in the verification process.
- The deadline for uploading information is close of business January 14, 2022.
- Students who have already uploaded their information to the student health portal and have had their information verified do not need to do so again.
- You may also be prompted to upload your information when signing on to PirateNet. Please note there is a delay between your upload and our review; if you uploaded your card and get a prompt in a subsequent login to PirateNet, choose the option that indicates you already uploaded your information.
- Unvaccinated individuals must declare a medical or religious exemption.
- Those who do not upload their information or declare an exemption by the January 14 deadline may have access to PirateNet and related systems denied.
Thank you for your cooperation in our work to keep ourselves and each other healthy. If you have questions, comments, or suggestions, please contact the HICT here.
Judge Rules Against Biden Contractor Mandate
On Tuesday (December 7) a federal judge issued a national preliminary injunction preventing the Biden Administration from enforcing its contractor mandate.
Recall that we earlier distinguished the difference between the Federal Register release of an Emergency Temporary Standard (ETS) from the Occupational Safety and Health Administration and the Biden Administration’s COVID-19 Workplace Safety: Guidance for Federal Contractors and Subcontractors.
We are implementing the requirements of the Guidance for Federal Contractors and Subcontractors. The OSHA ETS only applies to organizations not already covered by the Guidance for Federal Contractors.
Although the Guidance is being challenged in the courts, we are continuing with the vaccination upload and verification process. Please upload your vaccination information.
Omicron Variant Concerns Health Officials
The arrival of the Omicron variant is being closely watched. The state’s transmission rate remains above 1, and cases are increasing. We are monitoring public and University health statistics, and government guidance.
You can read more at:
CDC Provides Helpful Information
What You Need to Know About Variants
International travel requirements have changed. Starting December 6, all air passengers, regardless of vaccination status, must show a negative COVID-19 test taken no more than 1 day before travel to the United States.
Booster Shots Are Available; Get One
The State of New Jersey notes that everyone 5 years or older is eligible for a COVID-19 vaccine in New Jersey and is encouraged to get vaccinated as soon as possible.
Vaccines are widely available – at pharmacies, hospitals, health facilities, and other locations. See where you or a loved one can find a vaccine appointment at covid19.nj.gov/finder.
Flu Season Arrives; Get a Flu Shot
Officials are anticipating a stronger than usual flu season, given last year’s almost nonexistent spread. Like COVID, your best defense is to get vaccinated. Health Services provides flu vaccinations for students. We strongly encourage you to get a flu shot.
University Update
- There were 13 new cases since last week’s report.
- As of December 8, the five-day moving average of positive cases is at 2.
- 5 on campus quarantine and isolation beds are occupied.
- There are 19 individuals in isolation.
- The entire campus community has a vaccination rate of 90.5% with 98% of those fully 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.
This is all good news; however, with the holidays and colder weather, we remain vigilant and prepared should cases rise.
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.
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.
Vice President, Division of Student Services
Co-chair, Health Intervention and Communication Team
Categories: Campus Life, Health and Medicine
