To the Wesleyan community,
Thanks to our high vaccination rates, mask mandates, and robust testing protocols, the Wesleyan campus community has consistently maintained COVID-19 positivity rates lower than our surrounding area. This remains the case, even as we have seen an increase in positive campus cases. Most importantly, since we have the protection of vaccinations, the COVID-19 cases we’ve had thus far have been asymptomatic or mild. Vaccine booster shots are now available, and they offer an important additional layer of protection.
Wesleyan is requiring boosters for all students, staff, and faculty as part of the University’s vaccine mandate policy. Individuals should consult the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention to determine the timeline and the right booster for their particular situation. The vast majority of faculty, students and staff are currently eligible to receive their booster and must upload a copy of their updated vaccination card to WesPortal, reporting the date on which they received their booster shot, by Friday, January 14.
Faculty and Staff
Boosters are commonly available at most pharmacies. To find a vaccine provider and/or to get your official immunization record, visit the state vaccine portal. Please remember to bring your vaccination card to your appointment. All faculty and staff must receive a booster within 30 days of CDC’s eligibility in order to be in compliance with the University booster policy.
Students
The Community Health Center will be holding COVID-19 booster clinics in Beckham Hall on Wednesday, December 1 from 11 am to 5 pm and on Wednesday, December 8 from 11 am to 5 pm for students who are unable to get a booster at their local pharmacy. CHC clinic capacity is limited to 300 slots each day. All students must receive a COVID-19 booster and the flu vaccine in order to enroll for the spring semester.
We understand the concerns aroused by the latest increase in positive test results. Dr. Tom McLarney, Dean Rick Culliton and the Pandemic Planning Committee continue to monitor the situation closely. With a fully vaccinated campus, and seeing no evidence of transmission in classrooms, we expect to finish the semester normally. We remain encouraged by and appreciative of the hard work of our students, faculty, and staff in following the protocols outlined on Keep Wes Safe and in the COVID Code of Conduct.
Thank you, as always, for your care and attention in keeping our community safe.
Sincerely,