November 20 Update: COVID-19
Reminder: Thanksgiving Travel & Gathering Restrictions for Commuter Students
Dear Students,
As you have undoubtedly heard, the number of cases of COVID-19 in Vermont are growing at an unprecedented rate. Locally, the City of Burlington is observing a spike in traces of COVID in its wastewater, signaling increased community spread of the virus. Yesterday Vermont recorded 148 new cases. UVM has reported 56 positives this week with 184 students in quarantine. At Champlain we have been relatively fortunate with only two cases reported this week, however our risk remains high. Vermont State modeling forecasts another 50% increase in cases over the next six weeks.
Messages from the Centers for Disease Control and our Governor are clear: Travel and gatherings may increase your chance of getting and spreading COVID-19. Individuals from different households should not gather and travel is not recommended.
What does this mean for you?
It is imperative for your health and safety and that of the broader community, that you understand and take seriously the following requests and restrictions:
- Because risk of exposure to COVID-19 through community spread is increasing exponentially, we request that if you travel at all for the upcoming holiday or over the winter break, you stay where you go until the start of the spring semester. Doing so will significantly limit the potential for community spread.
- Remember, the state of Vermont requires that all college students returning home to Vermont residences quarantine for a minimum of 7 days upon arrival followed by a negative COVID test, or 14 full days if testing is unavailable.
- Do not get together or socialize with anyone you do not live with, per order of the Governor. This includes Thanksgiving and the winter holidays. You should not plan to join another household for Thanksgiving dinner and then return to a residence you share with others. There is an exception for those who live alone (in a single unit apartment or home): you may gather with members of your immediate family.
We recognize that these restrictions will impact your holiday and winter break plans and want to acknowledge all you have done to keep our community safe thus far. We appreciate your continued cooperation and vigilance.
Stay safe,
Danelle Berube
Interim Vice President of Student Affairs
