Nov. 5, 2021 – Friday COVID Update

EOU Community,

Thank you each and all for your efforts in helping keep EOU a safe and healthy campus. This week we have a few updates regarding the new federal vaccination mandate, vaccination clinics and face covering requirements:

• Federal vaccination mandate: The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) has released federal rules for employers regarding employee vaccination and testing requirements. It is not yet clear how these rules will be interpreted by Oregon officials for application at EOU, but we are in communication with local and state officials and will communicate additional details as soon as they are available. 

• On-campus vaccination clinic success: The on-campus vaccination clinic held Wednesday, Nov. 3, administered over 50 COVID-19 shots, including boosters and first or second doses. A third clinic is scheduled for Dec. 1 on campus. Time and location, as well as a link to sign up, will be available soon. 

• Booster shots: Employees who work on campus at EOU qualify for a COVID-19 booster. View the full list of qualifications at cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/vaccines/booster-shot.html. Boosters are available wherever vaccines are offered, including EOU’s on campus vaccination clinics.

• Translucent face coverings: Reports were received regarding a translucent face covering that is being used on campus. The face covering in question does not have openings and complies with EOU’s Face Covering Policy.  

Ongoing weekly vaccination clinics and testing for COVID-19:

• Friday vaccination clinics at CHD: Union County’s public health authority, CHD Inc., is offering free vaccinations in La Grande. These drop-in clinics take place at the Center for Human Development (2301 Cove Avenue), and offer first and second doses on a first-come, first-serve basis from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. each Friday. For additional information regarding clinics and testing, visit https://www.chdinc.org/. 

• Tuesday testing at Bi-Mart: Free COVID tests are available each Tuesday at the La Grande Bi-Mart. 

Please do not forget! 

Regular hand-washing, proper face coverings and completing the Daily Health Check remain critical to maintaining a safe and healthy learning environment. Contact your supervisor if you feel ill, or if you have questions about COVID-19 safety measures. Do not come to campus if you are sick in any way.

Thank you for your vigilance in protecting the welfare of our campus community as we work to provide a high-quality education in rural Oregon. Find more information at eou.edu/coronavirus. 

Thank you, 

Executive Leadership Team