Transmission Rates Rising, Booster Shots Encouraged
Thursday, November 18, 2021
After weeks of good news, national and state COVID-19 health numbers have been worsening. Case counts and hospitalizations are increasing. The state’s transmission rate rose to 1.1. The approaching holidays, along with associated travel and gatherings, have some officials concerned. We are monitoring public and University health statistics, and government guidance.
You can read more at:
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 encouraged to get vaccinated as soon as possible.
Reports indicate Governor Murphy will expand booster eligibility to all adults. While expanded eligibility is not yet official, the Governor was quoted as saying “You’ve kind of read between the lines. That’s kind of what I’m saying today. You can assume that’s the direction we’re going to be headed.”
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.
Federal Contractor Mandate
As previously reported, we are implementing the requirements of the Biden Administration’s COVID-19 Workplace Safety: Guidance for Federal Contractors and Subcontractors. For us, this means collecting additional vaccination verification, since we already have a vaccination requirement.
The Biden Administration announced the implementation of the Guidance is being delayed again. The new deadline is January 18, 2022.
During the week of November 29 we will provide a link for employees (including student workers) to upload their vaccination information. You will be reminded through PirateNet, similar to the Declaration process. All students should upload their vaccination cards on the student Health Portal.
In preparation, employees and students should take a photo or scan of their vaccination card. Employees and students will be required to upload an image of the front of the vaccination card for verification purposes. You may also provide an image of vaccination information from the Docket app.
This University-wide verification exceeds the federal guidance.
University Update
- There were 7 new cases since last week’s report.
- As of November 18, the five-day moving average of positive cases is at .6.
- 0 on campus quarantine and isolation beds are occupied.
- There are 7 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.
Interim Vice President, Division of Student Services
Co-chair, Health Intervention and Communication Team
Categories: Health and Medicine
