Team,
Even though the recent increase in our on-campus positive COVID-19 cases was something experts anticipated, the number of new COVID-19 cases is still concerning. The positive cases that we are seeing at Idaho State University are reflective of the situation in our local communities and across the country. The University Health Committee and Administrative Council are continuing to monitor multiple metrics, including transmission patterns and hospitalization rates, and these data points will continue to guide future decisions. Idaho State will remain at Level White on all campuses through at least Friday, January 28.
My goal for this week’s communication is to balance the concern that many are feeling with hope for the future. Like many of you, I am concerned about the Omicron variant surge. We all personally know individuals who have recently tested positive. I know this is difficult. This week COVID-related hospitalizations remained relatively low but we are monitoring this rate as changes occur quickly. The overwhelming majority of those hospitalized are unvaccinated. This should be a strong reminder of the importance of being fully vaccinated and boosted, when eligible.
While we don’t know when Omicron cases will peak in Idaho, we need to remain hopeful. We are now seeing case counts slow in parts of the country that were hit earliest by the Omicron variant. If Idaho’s trends follow what we are starting to see in other states, then there is hope on the very near horizon. In the meantime, continuing our on-campus protocols remains the best defense against continued spread. Please follow all the protocols and, in particular, note the first two bullets in the Operational Updates below.
This semester is starting strong despite the surge. Our students want to be here and have returned to pursue their education. Thanks to your continued commitment to our students, we can continue to fulfill our mission. I am optimistic about the future, and look forward to celebrating our shared accomplishments later this spring.