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Feb. 24, 2022
Dear faculty, staff and students,Ìý
In my last Covid column, I mentioned the significant drop in COVID-19 cases throughout
the state of Alaska. As a state, we currently remain above the average 7-day case
rate of 50 cases per 100,000 persons that President Pitney set as our criteria for
the UA System mask requirement. Once we drop below that number, or if the criteria
changes with updated CDC guidance, Chancellors will have authority to begin lifting
face-covering requirements. In the meantime, we are seeking authority to create mask-optional
zones on campus where there is low risk.
We are working now on expanding eligibility for a reduced isolation requirement after
testing positive for COVID-19. The reduction from 10 to 5 days must be authorized
by the , and will require a negative COVID-19 antigen test on day 6. In addition, a mask
must be worn upon returning to campus until the full 10 days has elapsed. This aligns
with guidance from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). The university’s
business continuity team (BCT), led by Director Tracey Martinson, will continue to
evaluate the 5-day isolation practice and adjust if case rates increase. If you test
positive for COVID, please remember to report your case using the Student or Employee
Illness Report Form. This helps the BCT make decisions regarding COVID mitigation
measures.
Last week, UAF once again hosted free public COVID-19 and flu drop-in vaccination
clinics at the Patty Center on the Fairbanks Troth Yeddha’ campus. The clinic offered
all three COVID vaccines (Pfizer, Moderna, and Johnson & Johnson), and included first
and second doses,Ìý booster shots, and pediatric COVID-19 vaccines. Flu shots were
also available. Over the two-day clinic, 58 COVID shots and 16 flu shots were administered.ÌýÌý
COVID-19 testing continues to be available on the Troth Yeddha’ campus. The Beacon
testing site is located in the Nenana parking lot and is open Monday-Saturday, 9:30
a.m.-5:30 p.m., with extended hours until 8 p.m. on Wednesday and Thursday. Please
note that testing stops approximately 30 minutes prior to closing. UAF also has a
supply of at-home COVID antigen tests available at the EHSRM office for all employees
and students.
My expectation is that we will see changes to our mask requirements and some other
COVID measures in the coming weeks. And next fall, I anticipate that we will resume
all traditionally in-person classes and events and manage COVID as we manage other
risks that impact health and safety.Ìý
Thank you for continuing to work, learn and support each other and thank you for choosing
UAF.Ìý
Dan White, chancellor
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