January 20, 2021


Dear Students, Faculty, and Staff: 
 
As we begin the spring 2021 semester, we want to remind you about the importance of adhering to University health and safety protocols regarding COVID-19.
 
Cases of COVID-19 have been rising in New Jersey and across the country. Please remember that COVID-19 is spread primarily through close person-to-person contact with one another (within about 6 feet) through respiratory droplets produced when an infected person coughs or sneezes. To reduce the risk of transmission, we strongly urge all members of the campus community to do the following:
 
  • Wear a face covering and practice social distancing of at least six feet
  • Refrain from gathering in large groups, especially indoors
  • Wash your hands often
  • Do your daily campus health screening
  • Report any symptoms or suspected exposure to COVID-19
  • Stay home if you are not feeling well
 
For spring 2021, we have contracted with Bergen New Bridge Medical Center to provide testing for our University community. We have developed a priority-based testing plan to ensure that our campus has a systematic approach. The program will mainly focus on populations most at risk for COVID-19, including athletics, club sports, residence life, and faculty and students in targeted high-risk academic programs. All individuals must be referred for testing by the Counseling, Health and Wellness Center. Testing will take place in White Hall Lounge on campus every Wednesday and Friday. 
 
In addition, students who may have been exposed to COVID-19 may get tested through the New Bridge testing program. These individuals must be screened and referred by the Counseling, Health and Wellness Center medical team. Students who are having symptoms should also reach out to CHWC. Any student in need of testing should call 973-720-2360 or send an email to COVIDCHWC@wpunj.edu.

Faculty and staff who are exposed or may have contracted COVID-19 while conducting their in-person job responsibilities will have access to the New Bridge testing program. All employees must be referred for testing by the benefits team in Human Resources in collaboration with Counseling, Health, and Wellness. An employee requesting testing can contact payroll@wpunj.edu or COVIDCHWC@wpunj.edu.
 
Additional details about the testing program are available at https://www.wpunj.edu/covid19.
 
We appreciate your cooperation and wish you a successful and healthy spring semester. Please continue to stay safe and do everything you can to keep the University safe for all of us.
 
Regards,
 
Dr. Jill Guzman
Director, Counseling, Health, and Wellness Center
 
Charles Lowe
Director, University Police and Public Safety

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