UC issues covid-19 guidelines

New policies imposed

UC students facing prolonged COVID-19 restrictions. | Photo by Joe Smith

Officials adopt mask, travel restrictions

STAFF FILE REPORT
UC Style Magazine
     In response to full FDA approval of the Pfizer-BioNTech vaccine, the University of Cincinnati is requiring students, faculty and staff to be vaccinated against COVID-19. The university is taking this step to promote the health and safety of our university community. Research shows vaccines are the most effective form of protection against COVID-19. All World Health Organization endorsed vaccines, including those in the U.S. made by Pfizer, Moderna and Johnson & Johnson, will fulfill the vaccine requirement. Booster shots may also be required in the future. 
Travel
     The university’s physician-led COVID Response Team is closely monitoring, local, regional, national and global trends related to COVID 19. Current standard policies apply to university-related domestic travel. International travel, is subject to additional review in light of changing circumstances.
     Effective November 29, 2021, students and scholars from Botswana, Eswatini, Lesotho, Malawi, Mozambique, Namibia, South Africa, and Zimbabwe will not be able to enter the U.S. as a result of the Omicron Coronavirus variant. Currently, no exemptions or an expiration date have been issued. Additional details will be added as they become available.
Facial coverings
     Given the most-recent developments with the virus, and in keeping with guidance from the CDC, individuals, both fully vaccinated and those not fully vaccinated, are required to wear a facial covering indoors (unless you have received an exempt
ion or accommodation; or when eating, drinking or alone in a private room).
     Those who are not fully vaccinated are required to wear a facial covering when outdoors and unable to maintain social distancing. Individuals who are not wearing a facial covering when outdoors are attesting to compliance with this requirement.
Screening and testing
     Currently, the university is offering weekly COVID screening testing. The testing site is located on the ground level of Steger Student Life Center. Faculty, staff and students can submit proof of vaccination, which consists of a snapshot of your vaccination card, via the UC COVID Check app and the web-based version of the COVID Check app. The university may revisit these testing practices and protocols, depending on testing needs and the changing context.