Team,
Since the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, the combined efforts of our campus community have been focused on supporting the safety and well-being of all Bengals. As the situation has evolved, the University has acted quickly to adapt our on-campus operations to follow CDC recommendations. I recognize and appreciate the commitment of so many in our campus community who followed our public health guidelines, and recently, those who made the right choice to get vaccinated.
As we have stated many times before, if you are fully vaccinated, you can participate in many of the activities that you did before the pandemic. Getting vaccinated remains the most effective way to prevent the spread of COVID-19. The University has vaccine appointments available right now, and I encourage all members of our campus community to get vaccinated. There is no cost to get a COVID-19 vaccine, and all State of Idaho employees who complete a COVID-19 vaccination by August 31 are eligible to receive four hours of paid COVID-19 administrative leave.
The highly contagious Delta variant of COVID-19 is spreading at an alarming rate and is now present in our local communities. With this in mind, the CDC has issued updated guidance about face coverings. To maximize protection from the Delta variant and prevent possibly spreading it to others, Idaho State is strongly advising all members of our campus community––regardless of vaccination status––to wear a mask when indoors on our campuses unless alone in your private office or workspace. Additionally, masks will be required for employees and adult visitors to the Early Learning Center, on-campus food service employees, and in our medical clinics.
Ongoing research confirms that COVID-19 vaccines are safe and effective, however, it is possible for fully vaccinated individuals to unknowingly spread the virus to unvaccinated people. As a community, we need to look out for each other and do everything we can to support the health and safety of all Bengals.
Our medical experts, Health Committee, and Roaring Back Committee are monitoring the local situation, evaluating data, and reviewing guidance on a daily basis. Please know that the University will communicate additional guidance for the fall semester as it draws closer.
––Kevin
Kevin Satterlee
President
