Some updates and guidance for the start of spring semester
As we prepare for the start of a new semester, here are a few quick updates and reminders to support you in your return to campus and the workplace.
On-campus testing returns to Ben Hill Griffin Stadium this week
Beginning this Thursday, testing will be available for faculty, staff and students at Ben Hill Griffin Stadium. These efforts are being coordinated by the Department of Health COVID Operations at UF, or DOH at UF, previously known as UF Health Screen, Test & Protect. Anyone wishing to schedule a test may now do so via ONE.UF.
Additional testing locations for the Gainesville area and throughout the state may be found on the Florida Department of Health’s website. If you have questions or need additional guidance, you may also reach out to the DOH at UF team at (352) 273-9790.
UF has also reinstated its weekly screening questionnaire to ensure faculty, staff and students receive reminders on how to get tested when needed.
Shorter periods for isolation and quarantine
As you may know, the CDC recently updated its guidelines, shortening the recommended periods of isolation and quarantine for the general population. UFHR has provided updated guidance for employees based on these changes as well as new procedures established in coordination with the DOH at UF.
According to Provost Glover’s Dec. 31 memo, faculty who contract the virus and need to isolate but feel well enough and are able to deliver coursework remotely may do so during their isolation period. Additional guidance for teaching and advising as well as guidance on taking leave may be found on the Working Through COVID-19 section of the UFHR website.
Are you fully vaccinated?
The CDC also recently revised its definition of who is considered fully vaccinated to individuals who have:
- Received a booster
- Completed the primary series of the Pfizer or Moderna vaccine within the last six months; or
- Completed the primary series of the Johnson & Johnson vaccine within the last two months
If you are not fully vaccinated, you are encouraged to schedule an appointment through ONE.UF to ensure your status is up-to-date.
Wear an N95 or KN95 mask for the greatest protection
In addition to ensuring you are fully vaccinated, UF Health advises the best protection against the Omicron variant is to wear an N95 or KN95 mask in indoor settings if possible. A limited number of these masks are available and may be requested through your area’s HR liaison. You can also purchase masks for personal use from Office Depot through UF’s GatorPerks program.