Dear Members of the Campus Community,
Please review this important update about increased preparations on campus in case of positive COVID-19 cases at Santa Clara University. This email shares new isolation protocols in the event that members of our community test positive for COVID-19; shelter-in-place plans for residence halls if multiple cases are detected; strengthened recommendations for testing and masking; and a reminder that students may opt to delay their return to campus until the end of week two if they so desire.
Santa Clara County Updates
Cases of COVID-19 in Santa Clara County have surged dramatically in the past few days and are continuing to rise– the lastest daily case number of 2,720 is the highest number of daily cases at any point in the pandemic. Cases are also increasing among fully vaccinated individuals, which is an indication that the spread could be due to the Omicron variant. We expect to detect a number of positive cases upon SCU entry testing. This local situation is changing rapidly, and the SCU COVID-19 team will continue to monitor the situation on campus and in our county.
Please get tested before returning to campus and before attending social gatherings. If you test positive before returning to campus, please report your positive status with this survey and follow the isolation guidelines below.
Isolation Guidelines
The University has updated its isolation guidelines. To support the safety of our community, any student, faculty, or staff member who tests positive for COVID-19 must isolate for seven days. More information is at Prepared SCU and Winter 2022 Isolation and Quarantine Protocol.
Students Living On Campus
In the event that there is a surge of positive cases in residence halls indicating community spread among residents, the University has a shelter-in-place plan. During a shelter-in-place, resident students will generally remain in their residence hall space to help contain the spread of the virus. Students may take walks, study, and eat outside in groups of four or less.
Mask Recommendations
As you prepare to return to campus, we recommend the use of N95, KN95 or KF94 masks for the best protection against the Omicron variant.
COVID-19 Vaccination Booster Requirement
Faculty, staff, and students must obtain a COVID-19 booster vaccination as soon as they are eligible. To assist our community in remaining fully vaccinated, the University is working to bring booster clinics to campus in the winter quarter. Details will be shared as they become available.
Please continue to take recommended precautionary measures to stay safe and well. The health and safety of our community is our top priority, and we will continue to update you as new information and analysis is available.
Sincerely,
SCU COVID-19 Operations Team
