Dear Santa Clara University Community, 

Welcome to the Week 10 edition of the Prepared SCU Weekly Roundup. In this final roundup for the fall quarter we share key information related to SCU’s response to COVID-19. 

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COVID-19 Dashboard Update

This past week, the University 7-day test positivity rate was 0.3%, lower than the 1.5% positivity rate in Santa Clara County and 2.9% positivity rate in California. Track our progress on our COVID-19 Dashboard. 

Testing During Finals Week

Test kits will continue to be available at all residence halls and academic buildings during Finals week. All resident students who returned to campus after Thanksgiving break should get tested during Finals week if they remain on campus. During the winter break, testing will be available only on December 13 and December 20 in Benson Center. 

Winter Quarter COVID-19 Testing

To ensure the health and safety of our community, ALL students are required to get tested twice during Week 1. In addition, all undergraduate and graduate students living on campus, as well as students with vaccination exemptions, must test weekly throughout the quarter. Faculty and staff are strongly encouraged to get tested when they return to campus.

Covaxin Vaccine Approved by WHO

The World Health Organization has issued an emergency use listing for the vaccine Covaxin, and it therefore meets the University requirement. For more information on SCU’s vaccination requirements for winter 2022, please review our Vaccine FAQ.

Omicron Variant

We are closely monitoring the recent arrival of the new Omicron variant in California. As the situation evolves, SCU will continue to adjust health and safety protocols to protect our community against the spread of this new variant. The Color COVID-19 test kits used on campus are able to detect all COVID-19 variants, including Omicron.

What if I Test Positive During Winter Break? 

If you test positive during the winter break, please observe all isolation protocols and precautions, and only return to class and campus after you complete your 10-day isolation period and are symptom free. 

Stay safe and well,

SCU COVID-19 Operations Team