Dear students,
We hope that your semester is coming to a successful and healthy conclusion!
Last week the Center for Global Programs and Services (CGPS) encouraged you to take extra precautions as you prepare for departure. One of those recommendations was to get a COVID-19 vaccine booster dose before you travel. We have continued to monitor the situation closely and are writing today with an update following additional guidance from the University’s health and risk management officials.
Effective immediately, all students participating in 22 Winter or 22 Spring study abroad programs who are eligible for a COVID-19 vaccine booster dose are required to receive a booster dose and submit an updated CDC vaccine card to your UD Health Portal prior to departure. This requirement also applies to UD World Scholars.
UD’s international partner organizations and risk and safety experts indicate that most countries will require vaccine boosters to maintain a valid “fully vaccinated” status abroad. There is no guarantee that vaccine boosters will be available to you while you are abroad, and the emergence of the Omicron variant requires that travelers take extra precautions to prevent illness and complications.
The CDC has approved vaccine booster shots for all individuals age 16 and up in the U.S., and you are eligible for a booster if you received your last dose of the COVID Pfizer or Moderna vaccine six or more months ago or the Johnson & Johnson vaccine two or more months ago. If you meet these conditions, you are required to get a booster dose, and submit your updated vaccine card to your UD Health Portal before you travel abroad. If you are not yet eligible for a booster, but will be due for one during your trip, we encourage you to consult with your medical provider for advice prior to traveling. Booster vaccines are available at many locations close to campus.
Students who do not receive a vaccine booster prior to departure assume additional risks of academic interruption and costly delays. If you are not fully vaccinated according to host country guidelines, you may not be allowed to participate in official program activities that could impact your academic standing in the program.
Please continue to check your email for messages from UD and our partners abroad with the most current health and safety guidelines for your departure from the U.S. We also encourage you to take responsibility for your personal health and that of our community by staying current with recommendations from the U.S. Department of State, the CDC, and your host country.
As always, if you have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact our office any time at studyabroad@udel.edu.
Respectfully,
Matt Drexler
Interim Associate Director, Study Abroad
