Dec. 10, 2021 – Friday COVID Update

University Community, 

A hardy congratulations on another successful term of keeping the campus safe from COVID-19 enabling us to teach, learn and work. Our collective effort and caring are outstanding examples of “Together, it’s possible!”  

As we enter Finals Week, remember to follow basic health procedures that keep all members of the campus community performing at our best. 

Updates this week include: 

• EOU Face Covering Policy

Updates to EOU’s Face Covering Policy were approved on an interim basis so it aligns with changes to Oregon’s mask mandate. A copy of the policy with revisions in red is attached below. Face coverings are no longer required outdoors, but indoor masking rules remain in effect. The OHA still “strongly recommends that when at home, individuals continue to wear a mask or face covering when indoors or outdoors when they are with people outside of their household and not able to maintain six feet of distance.”

• CHD offering all types of vaccinations

CHD, Inc. in La Grande is offering vaccinations for COVID-19 and the flu. Most adults can receive both shots at the same time. Visit chdinc.org for details. 

Winter Term Reminders

• Students who plan to begin classes at EOU in Winter Term (did not take classes Fall Term) must submit the COVID-19 Immunization Verification form with a copy of their vaccination card or doctor’s note by Dec. 17. Students requesting a nonmedical exemption must contact the Student Health Center (shc@eou.edu) for additional information and forms. 
• Unvaccinated students must submit a negative COVID-19 test before attending in-person classes (PCR test must be taken no earlier than Dec. 27 in order to start classes on Jan. 3). Student Affairs staff will reach out to unvaccinated students by Dec. 14 with details about on-campus testing Dec. 30 and Jan. 3. 
• Unvaccinated students who test positive or do not complete a test on time will not be permitted to attend in-person classes until they meet the requirement. Faculty should plan to make accommodations for students who cannot attend in-person classes while they await COVID test results. 

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 and work 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. Find more information at eou.edu/coronavirus. 

If you plan to travel or gather with others this holiday season, remember to practice healthy behaviors: wash hands regularly, avoid interactions if you’re ill, and wear a face covering indoors. Wishing you a safe and happy holiday season.

Thank you, 

Executive Leadership Team