COVID-19 Protocols Remain in Place; Tests Available on Campus

Dr. Spyridon S. Marinopoulos, University Health Center director, sent the following email to the campus community today:

Over the past 10 days, many areas of the country, Maryland included, have seen an increase in the number of COVID-19 cases. These cases are driven by new, more contagious Omicron sub-variants, but thankfully seem to present with mostly mild symptoms due to the continued effectiveness of vaccines and boosters.

As we have done since the beginning of this pandemic, we are continually reviewing a wide range of health metrics to inform a coordinated and data-informed response. Following a review of the most recent numbers, we wanted to share our current protocols and guidance:

• We will maintain our KN95 masking requirement, which includes classrooms, public transportation and patient care areas, until the end of the spring semester. We do not feel any additional masking requirements are necessary at this time; however, all members of our campus community are strongly encouraged to wear masks when indoors, especially during times when cases are rising. Masking remains a proven and effective tool to mitigate the spread of COVID-19.
  
• We continue to stress the importance of testing when individuals have symptoms. Rapid antigen self-test kits are readily available in the community: at the University Health Center (you may pick one up for free while supplies last); through your insurance at local pharmacies (up to eight per month free); and through the federal government's test ordering website. A helpful resource is the HHS.gov test locator website.
  
• If you experience COVID-19 symptoms, stay home and take a rapid antigen test. Be mindful that cases may increase within five to seven days following large family or religious gatherings this past weekend.
  
• If you test positive, please consult with your health care provider about the best options for your care and recovery. This is particularly important for individuals who are immunocompromised and/or have chronic health conditions placing them at higher risk. COVID-19 therapeutics are available and can be ordered through your physician, and there are several test-to-treat options as well.

Thanks to our extremely high vaccination rate and the continued use of masks in classrooms, the number of COVID cases on our campus has remained low, allowing us to have a rich, in-person experience this year. We appreciate your continued diligence as we complete the final weeks of the spring semester.

Be well,

Spyridon S. Marinopoulos, MD, MBA, FACP
Director, University Health Center
Chief Medical Officer, University of Maryland
He/Him/His