Weekly COVID-19 Update: December 3

Team,

I hope everyone had an enjoyable holiday break and was able to take a few moments to reflect on the many things we have to be grateful for in our lives. On the first day of the fall semester, there was both optimism and uncertainty about the weeks ahead for us. Now, as we conclude another term, I am again proud of what we have accomplished together. Thank you for making this past semester of learning possible for our students. Your patience, understanding, and willingness to adapt to our health guidelines is always appreciated.

Our overall on-campus positive cases continue to decline and follow a two-month trend. Our University and the State of Idaho are also closely following news of the Omicron variant of COVID-19, and we will be ready to make additional operational adjustments if needed. The recent emergence of this new variant further emphasizes the importance of vaccinations, boosters, and prevention efforts needed to protect against COVID-19.

SITUATIONAL UPDATE

Idaho State will remain at Level White on all campuses. The operational modifications implemented earlier this semester will remain in place until at least Friday, December 31.

On our campuses, face coverings are still required indoors and at outdoor events when physical distancing is not possible.

All vaccinated adults in Idaho are now eligible for a booster dose of a COVID-19 vaccine.

To find a vaccine provider, visit the Idaho Department of Health and Welfare website. If you have a cell phone, you can text your zip code to 438829 (GETVAX), and a vaccine location in your area will be texted back to you. Information about our on-campus vaccination clinics is available on the Roaring Back website.

The State of Idaho has extended its employee vaccination incentive leave program, and it will now be available for employees who complete a COVID-19 vaccination through December 31, 2021. The four hours of leave are eligible for use through January 31, 2022.

Our vaccine incentive program for students will end next Friday, December 10.

On the heels of last week’s holiday break, I want to remind all students, faculty, and staff to use the Self-Report Form if they have been exposed to someone who has tested positive for COVID-19 or if they are experiencing COVID-like symptoms. Other than vaccination, contact tracing is our most effective way of keeping campus safe, healthy and face-to-face.

If you have not already done so, I want to encourage all vaccinated faculty and staff to upload a copy of their vaccination card to Idaho State’s secure health portal. The process is easy, and step-by-step instructions are available online. Other secure options to share your vaccination status with the University are available on that website.

In a couple of weeks, we will celebrate a number of our graduating students at winter commencement. This is the WHY behind what we do. Thanks to each member of our campus community for your continued efforts in changing lives through education.

––Kevin

Kevin Satterlee

President

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