Campus briefing Jan. 5, 2022

President Steve Bahls and Dean of Students Dr. Wes Brooks held a campus briefing Jan. 5, 2022, to discuss ongoing COVID-19 guidelines and procedures.

Because of the rising numbers of cases due to the Omicron virus, they reiterated the need for students and staff to continue taking precautions:

• If you are not vaccinated, get a COVID-19 vaccination right away.

• If you are vaccinated, get a COVID-19 booster shot. 

• If you have had a booster shot, register that vaccination with the college as soon as possible.

• Continue to use the Campus Clear app. A newer application will be made available soon that will be required for access to recreation and dining.

• Seek testing if you have COVID-19 symptoms, regardless of your vaccination status. Contact Public Safety to start contact tracing if you have had a positive test result or close contact. 

• Adhere to the group gathering limit of 20 people, or meet virtually.

Augustana is not requiring booster shots at this time, but community members are strongly urged to get a booster. The CDC recommends that everyone stay up to date with COVID vaccinations, which means having all the shots for which you are eligible. (See Stay Up to Date with Your Vaccines.)

The Augustana Convenient Care Clinic offers vaccinations, booster shots and COVID-19 testing. 

The college has placed an order for KN-95 masks for each student and employee, which should be available by week’s end. 

At the beginning of the pandemic, cloth masks were a good option. However, given the transmissibility of Omicron, the current advice is to use KN-95 and similar masks.   

If you don’t have a KN95 or comparable mask, and typically wear a cloth mask, consider double-masking in classes and other group settings for the time being.

Masking is required in all Augustana buildings regardless of vaccination status. Masks should be worn properly by covering the nose and mouth.