COVID-19 in our community

RIT students responded in large numbers to yesterday’s invitation to test. Consequently, we tested many more students today than we have in previous weeks. As expected, we are seeing additional positive cases. It appears most or all cases at RIT, and other colleges and universities, are the result of social gatherings and not from classroom transmission. It is important to be diligent about wearing your mask not only indoors on campus, but in any public indoor spaces or outdoors with larger gatherings.  

While the rise in case numbers may be viewed as concerning, the majority of those cases are asymptomatic, vaccinated students. We are not seeing severe COVID-19 illness among our students, which shows the vaccination is working well. From a public health standpoint, this is what we expected. Estimates of asymptomatic vaccinated patients vary, but most believe it to be high, especially in college-aged students. COVID-19 is here, likely for a long while. We must learn to live with it and protect one another, particularly those who may be more vulnerable.

Students, if you are experiencing any symptoms, stay home, and please reach out to the Student Health Center through patient chat to obtain appropriate guidance. 

Employees, if you are experiencing any symptoms, stay home, and please reach out to your health care provider to obtain appropriate guidance. 

As a reminder, face masks are required indoors for everyone on campus, regardless of vaccination status. The indoor mask requirement applies at all times, except when alone, in a private office with the door closed, in your living space, or while eating. If you are eating in a group, eat first, then replace your mask for socializing.

Thank you for your continued diligence and commitment to preserving the health of our community.

Wendy Gelbard, MD
Associate Vice President

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