Dear Members of the Campus Community:
Here are this week’s five things you need to know about Fordham’s COVID-19 precautions, vaccinations, and University operations:
- In the last 14 days 158 people in the University community tested positive for COVID-19, an overall positivity rate of 2.15%, as listed on the University dashboard. The next testing deadline is Friday, March 26.
- Infection rates are highest among first-year students: while this age group is at less risk for a serious case of the virus, that risk is not zero, and they may easily spread it to other, more vulnerable family members, friends, and others.
- On-campus COVID-19 precautions remain in place, regardless of vaccination status:
- Wear a mask in any public space: you may remove your mask in a private office with the door closed, or if eating outdoors in a socially distanced environment.
- Your mask must cover your nose and mouth and fit your face snugly.
- In addition to wearing a mask, you must maintain a distance of 6 feet from other people at all times.
- You should wash your hands frequently, especially after touching surfaces in public spaces.
- As of today, Tuesday, March 23, New York state residents age 50 and older are eligible to receive the COVID-19 vaccine: nyc.gov/vaccinefinder. Essential University workers, including teaching assistants and student workers, are now eligible to receive vaccinations in New York state, regardless of age or residency.
- Per New York state law, employees must be granted up to four hours of excused paid leave per COVID-19 injection that will not be charged against any other leave the employee has earned or accrued (such as sick time or vacation time). This time may be used only for receiving the vaccine: employees should use University sick time if they are unable to work because of vaccine aftereffects.
You are required to use VitalCheck to verify your COVID-19 status. For more information, please see the COVID-19 Guidelines on the web.
Marco Valera
Vice President for Administration & COVID-19 Coordinator
