Dear Students,
It has been awesome seeing so many of you back on campus this fall! I know we have all enjoyed seeing more activity on and near campus, having the Danforth University Center full during the day, and studying/connecting with friends. I want you to know how very much I appreciate all of you for your commitment to our COVID-19 Public Health guidelines. We have been able to have a more normal fall semester this year because we’re vaccinated, following our masking guidelines, and reporting our symptoms when we don’t feel well. Thank you!
I also wanted to remind all of you that COVID-19 is still with us. While the numbers remain very low, we continue to experience a small number of COVID-19 cases in our campus community. Most of these are “breakthrough cases” – students who are already vaccinated contracting COVID-19. Because of our high vaccination rates on campus, we are seeing very little spread of the disease and those who contract it, for the most part, are experiencing very mild symptoms. However, we cannot let our guards down and I wanted to share with all of you some important reminders about safety.
- If you are gathering in large groups, try to do so outdoors.
- If you are gathering socially indoors with others who you don’t live with, wear a mask at all times.
- Complete your daily self-screen at screening.wustl.edu.
I also have recently received a few questions from students about COVID-19 booster shots. At this time, the University is not requiring COVID-19 booster shots. Based on guidance from our medical experts, the University doesn’t believe requiring boosters for students would have a significant impact on reducing COVID-19 in our community. However, I would note that there may be some health benefits for individual students who have underlying medical conditions or who received the Johnson & Johnson vaccine. For members of our community who are interested in a booster vaccine, appointments are readily available at most public clinics or retail pharmacies. To find a booster vaccine near you, visit https://www.vaccines.gov/search/ and type in your zip code.
Happy Halloween!
Be well,
Anna “Dr. G” Gonzalez
Vice Chancellor for Student Affairs