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Dear Pitt Community,
While the current COVID Community Levels for all the communities in which our campuses sit are either Low or Medium, the truth is that we expect these levels to continue to fluctuate in our region throughout the rest of the year. Thanks to the high vaccination rate in our Pitt communities, the risk from COVID for the majority of people is no longer serious illness, hospitalization or death, but disruption to life, which nobody wants, either. Disruptions can cause everything from academic and professional setbacks, to missing events and travel, to potentially long-term health issues and poorer health outcomes.
What has never been clearer than now is the importance of personal responsibility when it comes to public health. Our top three recommendations for staying healthy this summer are:
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Keep up good habits like masking when among large crowds indoors. One-way masking works. Even if others around you are not masking, you are better protected when wearing a well-fitting mask.
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Stay up to date on vaccinations. That means getting boosted as soon as you’re eligible. Know when you can get your booster. Being boosted is the best way to avoid disruptions to your life, which goes for those around you as well, so encourage your friends and family to stay up-to-date.
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Sometimes this doesn’t get stressed enough: The CDC says people who are boosted only need to mask and don’t need to quarantine if they’re exposed to someone with COVID-19 (unless they develop symptoms). On the other hand, if you learn about a positive close contact and are not boosted, you must quarantine for at least five full days.
Check out the CDC’s Quarantine and Isolation Calculator.
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Regularly check the CDC’s tool to keep track of Community Levels wherever you are. Masking requirements on Pitt campuses automatically go into effect when the CDC Community Level goes to High. Visit coronavirus.pitt.edu for current Community Levels and check digital signage around campus. People are welcome to mask on campus at any time, for any reason.
For anyone still in need of COVID vaccines (now including children ages 3+), the Pitt CoVax Vaccination Center remains open for the summer with plenty of availability on Mondays from noon – 5 p.m. and Wednesdays and Thursdays from 9 a.m. – 5 p.m. Walk-ins are welcome, but appointments are preferred. Register online. Don’t forget to submit proof of your vaccination or booster after your shot if you’re a member of the Pitt community.
New this week
The CDC has officially recommended pediatric vaccines for the last group of children, ages 6 months to 5 years. The Pitt CoVax Vaccination Center will be able to vaccinate children ages 3 and up starting today, Wednesday, June 22. We have all COVID-19 vaccines available. Please register for an appointment online. Currently, guardians of children under 3 can contact their pediatrician or local health department for information on vaccine appointments.
Remember: Masks optional. Kindness required.
Sincerely,
The COVID-19 Medical Response Office
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