TO: The Gustavus Community
FROM: President Bergman
SUBJECT: Campus COVID-19 Updates
DATE: August 12, 2022
Greetings Gusties, As the calendar turns to August, our sights turn to the start of the school year and welcoming students back to campus. I hope you have had a little time this summer for fun and renewal.
The COVID-19 pandemic continues to be a part of our lives, however our community is in a much better place now with treatments, vaccinations, and KN95 masks available.
Below are updates about the campus COVID-19 response for this fall. The COVID-19 Leadership Team continues to meet regularly to monitor the situation and revise our response as needed.
Face Masks
- Masking is not required on campus based on the current COVID level in the area. Some faculty may choose to still require masking in their class.
- Bring a few KN95 masks to campus to wear if you develop symptoms, have a known exposure, or test positive.
- Individuals are supported in their choice to mask when masking is not required as there are many reasons why an individual may choose to mask.
- The Campus Center Information Desk will offer free KN95 masks.
- Learn more about the Campus COVID-19 Levels.
What if You Test Positive For COVID-19?
- Students and employees are expected to self-manage their isolation, following CDC guidance.
- Isolation space is still available if a student chooses to move.
- Students and employees are no longer required to report a positive test result.
- Learn more at the Gustavus COVID website.
COVID-19 Testing on Campus
- Gustavus Health Servicewill be offering a rapid molecular NAAT test (similar accuracy to a PCR test with results in 20 minutes) called Abbott ID NOW.
- Mass testing may be available if there is a significant rise in cases on campus.
Rapid Antigen Tests
- Bring a supply of rapid antigen tests to campus. There are many options to get tests for free.
o Be reimbursed by your health insurance for eight free at-home tests per person every month.
o Get eight free tests from the U.S. government per household.
o Minnesota residents are also eligible for another eight free at-home tests.
- The Book Mark will have rapid antigen tests for sale on campus.
COVID-19 Vaccination
- Everyone is encouraged to stay up-to-dateon their COVID-19 vaccinations and boosters as this is the best way to prevent severe disease.
- New students are required to either be vaccinated or to complete an exemption form.
- Gustavus Health Service will have the Pfizer vaccine/booster available.
- Learn more about COVID vaccine resources.
More information about COVID-19 may be found at gustavus.edu/covid or by emailing g-covidresponse@gustavus.edu.
Our community is in a good place regarding COVID-19. While, we all must continue to be diligent in following COVID mitigation measures based on the need of the situation, there is much cause for optimism as we look ahead to the fall semester.
Yours in community,
President Bergman