COVID-19 update

Lafayette Community,

The increase in COVID-19 cases we saw last week leveled off and dropped as was anticipated. Through last night we had less than 50 students in isolation and several are eligible for release this weekend. As we have navigated the pandemic together, we have recognized that no plans would be perfect and that the information we had would be ever-changing. We have also acknowledged, frequently, that viruses change. It is what they do and our responses must also evolve and change. To that end, let’s take a moment to review some things we know:

• Vaccines and boosters have worked to offset the most serious outcomes of COVID-19: hospitalization and death for many individuals. We acknowledge that the long-term impacts of a COVID-19 infection are not yet known. However, we must recognize that with a vaccination rate greater than 98%, we are better positioned than many areas in the general public in terms of our ability to mitigate the most serious impacts of COVID-19.
• We have ample supplies of KN95 masks for members of the community who wish to use high-quality masks. These types of masks (KN95, KF94 and N95) protect the wearer as well as those around them.
• Treatments have emerged that are very effective at helping offset the most serious consequences of COVID-19 infections, particularly for those whose underlying conditions create increased vulnerability. These are particularly effective if COVID-19 is detected early. We have built up our testing capacity, securing both PCR and antigen test resources, to ensure members of the community have routine access to testing should they desire it.

We have been projecting ahead to spring break and much-anticipated travel for many students. We are planning to provide every student with a test kit before the break. Students will receive details about where to pick up the test kits during the week of March 7.

We are currently in the process of considering revisions to our community expectations, including masking, which will always be informed by the best medical and scientific guidance available. We are in the process of gathering input through conversations with Student Government, the Faculty Academic Policy committee, and Administrative Council. We remain committed to supporting the community by providing information and tools to manage the risks associated with COVID-19.  

Annette Diorio
Vice President for Campus Life

Dr. Jeff Goldstein
Director of Health Services

COVID-19 Action Group
covid-19@lafayette.edu