Dear UMW community,
In preparation for the upcoming academic year, we would like to inform you of the most current information regarding COVID-19 for the fall 2022 semester. UMW will continue to evaluate the COVID-19 pandemic in accordance with public health guidance and provide recommendations to staff and students. In order to continue to provide a safe, engaging community, all members of the community must assess their environment and risk tolerance, exercise common sense practices, and be sensitive to the needs of fellow students, staff, and faculty. Here are some highlights:
Vaccinations
UMW continues to strongly encourage students and employees to get stay up to date on COVID-19 vaccinations/boosters. We strongly encourage students to upload their vaccination card to the Student Health Portal. Awareness of your status allows the UMW public health team to provide the best and proper ongoing advice for our Quarantine and Isolation practices.
Masking
Besides vaccines, the wearing of a well-fitting mask is highly effective at preventing the spread of the coronavirus, including its variants. Masks are no longer required anywhere on UMW property, except healthcare settings (Student Health Center, Talley Center for Counseling Services, Athletic Training room). Masks are recommended when in close proximity of others for a prolonged period of time, particularly indoors. We especially recommend KN95 masks (available on campus at the UC or by work order request to employee departments), double masking, or equivalent masks.
Testing
Everyone who has COVID symptoms, regardless of their vaccination status, should stay away from others and get tested. Students can contact the Student Health Center, while employees should consult their health care provider or get tested at a local pharmacy.
There will be no proctored COVID testing on campus this semester for members of the UMW community who believe they might have been exposed. However, COVID-19 self-tests will be available for pick-up at the Student Health Center, Eagle Landing front desk, Human Resources, the Athletic Training room, or Marye House front desk.
Continued Flexibility
As we’ve all learned since March of 2020, COVID-19 is a moving target. Thus, members of the UMW community need to be flexible and adjust as conditions and directives change. The Public Health Advisory Working Group and the Cabinet will keep a close eye on local COVID conditions and, as necessary, we will take additional temporary steps to further protect the UMW community.
For the latest updates and more information, visit the Fall 2022 website.
Thank you for your continuing to support UMW’s health and safety efforts.
Sincerely,
Brandy Ellard, Director of Emergency Management and Safety & Chair of Public Health Advisory Working Group
Dave Fleming, Assistant Vice President for Student Affairs & Dean of Residence Life and Housing