COVID Protocol Summary Update

As COVID cases mount in the current surge, we will update you on the enhanced measures and steps we are continually taking to ensure the health and safety of our Salus community.

Updated Vaccination Requirement: All students, faculty and staff are expected to have their booster by February 13, 2022 or as soon as eligible per CDC guidelines. Report your booster here. In case you have not already submitted your vaccination status, you can do so here. 

Upgraded Masks: Given the Omicron variant’s increased transmissibility, we support the use of Salus prescribed face masks as outlined in our Salus Safety Strategy.

Below are examples of face masks that can and cannot be worn in Salus facilities:

Allowed:

• N95, KN95, KF94, and medical grade surgical masks;

• Cloth masks may only be used as a second mask over a surgical mask.

Not allowed:

• Face coverings with exhaust valves;

• Face coverings made with materials such as cloth, mesh or lace fabrics;

• Face coverings that do not cover the nose and mouth;

• Face shields without the addition of a face covering;

• Gaiters, balaclavas, bandannas, scarves and ski masks.

Surveillance Testing: We will increase surveillance testing during the first part of the semester to assist us in detecting potential spread of the virus during the surge.

Ventilation: Each classroom has been outfitted with a MERV13 filtration system to circulate air at the recommended exchange rate. These will run continuously. Read more here.

Hand Sanitation: Sanitation stations have been positioned throughout the buildings for easy access to hand sanitizer.

Dining: Seating capacity in the café will be reduced to provide increased social distancing. Grab-and-go options will be added. Food will be permitted in the Learning Resource Center in the designated eating area only, which is clearly identified. In the near future, we will offer a heated, outdoor seating area, adjacent to the cafeteria, to provide an additional, safe dining space. 

Classes: Programs will be communicating directly with students the instructional modalities that will be employed in the coming weeks.

I want to express my continued thanks to our COVID Advisory Committee members who have devoted significant time and energy in advising on our mitigation strategies.  

Thank you and stay well,  

Michael H. Mittelman, OD, MPH, MBA, FAAO, FACHE