Dear USF Community,
With the semester coming to a close, we are grateful for the way in which the USF community has worked together this fall to keep one another healthy and safe. In preparation for a return to campus for intersession and spring semester, please review the following updates for all students and employees. We are continuing to consult with health professionals and will update you of any additional measures that may be put in place.
Face Covering Policy
As a result of the State of California reinstituting an indoor face covering requirement for all public settings regardless of vaccination status, USF has adjusted some campus protocols. While our masking policies for our campuses largely remain unchanged, face coverings are now required for patrons of the Koret Health and Recreation Center, effective Dec. 15. Although gyms in San Francisco are exempt from this new state guidance, the university has decided to align with the policy. After the first of the year, we will reevaluate the policy and communicate any changes when Koret reopens on Jan. 10, 2022.
Quarantine and Testing Expectations for Students
This week all USF students received detailed information regarding quarantine and testing requirements for the spring semester. Students who are not fully vaccinated will be required to quarantine for seven days prior to participating in on-campus classes or activities next semester. In addition, all students, regardless of vaccination status, will be required to provide a negative COVID-19 test result one to two days prior to returning to campus.
California Travel Advisory
The California Department of Public Health has issued a new travel advisory effective immediately that recommends all travelers arriving in California test for COVID-19 within three to five days of arrival, regardless of their vaccination status.
On-Campus COVID-19 Testing
When classes resume for spring semester, on-campus testing will be available every Wednesday and Thursday. To participate and sign up, please visit HPS COVID-19 Resources. Students with approved exemptions will continue to be required to test. Students reporting symptoms during the spring semester will receive instructions for testing from the COVID Tracing Team.
Booster Clinic
USF will host booster clinics at the beginning of the spring semester. More information will be forthcoming. If you are eligible for a booster before the start of the semester, please work with your primary care provider, a local or retail pharmacy (Walgreens, CVS, etc.), or go to the SF.gov vaccine site to secure an appointment.
Food at Events
After consulting with public health officials and experts, USF has decided to continue its policy from fall 2021 of not permitting food and beverage at indoor events. Food and beverage will continue to be served outside only. USF will reexamine this policy throughout the semester and communicate any changes.
Health and Safety Reminders
Please review the following practices to protect your health and well-being, and the health and well-being of the community:
- Continue to monitor for symptoms. If you are on campus for winter and/or intersession, whether in student housing, classes, or working, you must submit your daily Dons Health Check or submit symptoms directly to covidtracing@usfca.edu. If you are off campus, you are not required to submit daily symptom checks but may contact covidtracing@usfca.edu if you need information.
- Wash your hands often for at least 20 seconds.
- Wear face coverings while indoors and outdoors.
- Limit large group settings whenever possible, especially with those whose vaccination status is unknown.
- Stay home when sick or not feeling well.
- Utilize hand sanitizer often, including from the stands around campus.
- If able, we highly recommended getting a COVID-19 booster shot.
Once again, thank you for helping keep our community safe. We hope you find opportunities to rest and recharge during the winter break.
Sincerely,
COVID Management Team