Dear Monarchs:

I am writing to provide you with an update on the University's efforts to promote campus health and well-being.

While COVID-19 positivity rates are currently low in our region, some states are reporting surges again, and the University is extending its free COVID-19 testing and will be providing pop-up vaccination and booster clinics.

Testing Update

Free PCR testing for students, faculty and staff has been moved from the Jim Jarrett Annex to Student Health Services in Webb University Center. Appointments are available Monday through Thursday from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. and Tuesday and Thursday from 2 to 4 p.m. and can be scheduled online at Monarch Wellness Portal. At the time of your appointment, please report to the side door entrance to Student Health Services (across from the old Chemistry Building) and follow the signs.

You may also seek testing through your health care provider or other local COVID-19 testing options. The U.S. government is also offering at-home rapid test kits, which you can order online at covidtests.gov. Please note: Employees who wish to use Public Health Emergency Leave (PHEL) for COVID-19 must show proof of a positive PCR test.

If your campus result comes back positive, you will receive an email with further guidance. If you receive a positive result at a non-campus site, please upload it to the Monarch Wellness Portal so that proper follow-up and support can be provided.

Upcoming Vaccination and Booster Pop-up Clinic

On Thursday, April 21 from 12 to 3 p.m., the University will have a COVID-19 mobile vaccination and booster clinic, hosted by Hampton University, for ODU students, faculty and staff and the public at the Jim Jarrett Annex. The following doses will be available at the clinic, free of charge:

Pfizer

Dose #1

Dose #2

Boosters

Moderna

Boosters

To register for this pop-up vaccination clinic, please visit https://vase.vdh.virginia.gov. Walk-ins are also welcome.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends adults 18 years and older get mRNA COVID-19 vaccine boosters (Pfizer-BioNTech or Moderna). Once you are vaccinated at ODU, the University will update your vaccination record with the state. Learn more about who can get a second booster.

Thank you for your efforts to #ReignResponsibly. University officials continue monitoring local, state and national trends, and if any adjustments are needed, we will send out timely communications. I wish you a successful end to the spring semester!

Sincerely,

Don Stansberry, Ph.D.

Vice President of Student Engagement and Enrollment Services