To Lafayette faculty and staff:
Here are some principles related to COVID-19 to help you plan.
Masks and physical distancing
Consistent with guidance from the Pennsylvania Department of Health, we no longer require masks indoors or outside for individuals regardless of vaccination status. We highly encourage unvaccinated individuals to continue wearing a mask both indoors and outside. We also encourage you to consider wearing a mask, even if you are vaccinated, if this helps you navigate shared spaces. We have begun the process of removing plexiglass barriers in common areas such as dining halls and expect most spaces to return to a higher level of density than we experienced during the 2020-21 academic year.
Testing
Our routine monitoring program ended on May 28. For the upcoming year, the small number of students who receive exemptions from COVID-19 vaccination will be tested routinely, and any student who exhibits COVID-19 symptoms will be tested at the health center. No testing for faculty and staff can be provided on campus.
Vaccinations and communication
We surveyed our 771 full-time faculty and staff, approximately 81% (624) have indicated that they are fully vaccinated, with another 4% planning to be fully vaccinated before the start of the fall semester. Student vaccination data is still being received ahead of the Aug. 1 deadline for compliance. We encourage all members of the community to become familiar with facts about the vaccine
Faculty and staff will not receive information about vaccine status for any students or employees. However, if external agencies such as employers, study abroad partners, or other institutions to which students or employees may travel are governed by specific guidelines regarding vaccination, you may be required to provide proof of vaccination to participate in associated activities.
Quarantine and isolation
Per CDC guidance issued in the spring, fully vaccinated individuals do not need to quarantine or isolate even if exposed to someone who tests positive for COVID-19. We will not maintain quarantine or isolation housing. Students who test positive for COVID-19 will be restricted from in-person activities such as class attendance, athletics, and other group activities. Students who test positive for COVID may be sent home, if within a reasonable distance, for 10 days.
Travel
Per the CDC guidance issued last spring, fully vaccinated individuals may travel without the need to quarantine upon return. Unvaccinated individuals are highly discouraged from traveling.
Sincerely,
COVID-19 Action Group
covid-19@lafayette.edu