Dear Members of the Campus Community,

Please read below for community health updates and recommended Thanksgiving travel guidance.

Increase in Respiratory Illnesses
Nationwide, we are experiencing a surge in respiratory illnesses including cold, flu, COVID-19, and Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV). Here on campus, our surveillance indicates that we are similarly seeing an increase in COVID-19 infections, and an earlier flu season as compared to previous years. These factors indicate that we need to evaluate our risks and modify our behaviors to keep our community healthy.

We strongly recommend the following:

  • wear a mask at indoor group settings and when you are in close contact with others
  • get updated flu and COVID-19 vaccinations, if you have not already done so
  • stay home if you are sick

As a reminder, if you test positive for COVID-19, report the case to contacttracing@pugetsound.edu.

COVID-19 Testing
We continue to provide rapid antigen tests while supplies last and will maintain our COVID-19 testing website with information about testing resources on and off campus.

Please help us keep an adequate supply of rapid antigen tests for those who need them by ordering your own free rapid tests from the Washington Department of Health through https://sayyescovidhometest.org/.

Faculty and staff who participate in the university’s medical plan can also get free rapid antigen tests. For more information, contact benefits@pugetsound.edu. 

Thanksgiving Travel Guidance
Thanksgiving break is quickly approaching, and many members of our community have plans to travel, and/or to gather with family and friends. In order to ensure limited disruption to our campus activities after the break, we strongly recommend that you:

  • wear a mask while traveling
  • test for COVID-19 before and after gathering with others
  • stay home and do not travel or attend gatherings if you are sick

After resuming activities on campus after the break, we strongly recommend that you:

  • wear a mask at indoor group settings and when you are in close contact with others
  • test yourself within five days of returning from break

Thank you for continuing to prioritize your personal and our collective health and safety as we continue to navigate through an ever-evolving new normal.

Best wishes, 

Danielle Bus, RN (she/her)
Counseling, Health, and Wellness Services