COVID-19 Vaccine and Public Health Protocols

COVID-19 Vaccine Requirements and Public Health Protocols

This message is an update about changes to the COVID-19 vaccination requirement and
other COVID-19 public health protocols. The COVID leadership team has reviewed the
recent end to the COVID-19 Public Health Emergency and has made changes to
Gallaudet’s COVID-19 protocols as outlined below.

COVID-19 vaccination requirement change

Gallaudet University strongly recommends the COVID-19 bivalent vaccination for all
Gallaudet University faculty, staff, and students, as well as Clerc Center teachers and staff,
but it is not required as a condition of employment or enrollment.

Please note that Clerc Center will continue to require the COVID-19 bivalent vaccination
for all Clerc Center students in accordance with the District of Columbia Office of the State
Superintendent of Education.

We know that the bivalent vaccine, also known as the updated COVID-19 vaccine, is
effective in preventing serious illness and hospitalization. The updated COVID-19 vaccine
will remain free. We recommend that you make sure you have the updated vaccine as this
is more effective than the original COVID-19 vaccine.

Where to receive vaccination
After May 24, 2023, SHS will no longer have the COVID-19 vaccine but you can
find the closest place to get a vaccine through www.vaccines.gov.

COVID-19 testing changes
COVID-19 testing will no longer be free. This means that insurance carriers such as private
insurance, Medicare, and Medicaid will have different policies on the cost of the test or you
may have a copay for a visit to a medical office for a COVID-19 test. It is important that you
review your insurance coverage policy. You can also use the CDC
website: https://testinglocator.cdc.gov/ to find potential free tests.

Where to find tests on campus

LabCorp PCR testing will remain available at SHS with your insurance coverage during operating hours (see below) and an appointment.  You can schedule an appointment through the Patient Portal. 

Student Health Service (SHS) (Monday-Friday, 8 a.m.-7 p.m. and
Saturday, 10 a.m.-4 p.m.; summer hours June 12 – August 21
Monday-Friday, 8 a.m.-4:30 p.m.)

After May 31, the Campus Services Team will no longer be providing COVID supplies. If you need
additional supplies, please work with your department to order.

Continue to protect yourself
We recognize that this shift may be uncomfortable for some individuals; however, there are
ways you can continue to protect yourself.

You should already have had the COVID-19 bivalent vaccine. If you have not yet
done so, and you are eligible, get the updated bivalent booster.

Wear a KN95 or N95 mask that is well sealed on your face.
If you are experiencing any possible symptoms, such as feeling like a cold is coming on or
allergy-like symptoms, you should mask up and test for confirmation.

Gratitude
We want to express our deep gratitude to each and every one of you for doing your best
over the past three years to protect the Gallaudet University and Clerc Center community
from the worst outcomes of COVID-19. Let us continue to prioritize our health and well-being as we move forward.
Stay safe, stay informed, and take care of yourselves and one another.

In summary, please remember that COVID-19 remains in our community and that the best
thing you can do to protect yourself, your family, and your friends is to make sure that you
have the updated COVID-19 bivalent vaccine. The COVID-19 response team will continue
to monitor local trends and update you. If you have any questions or concerns, please do
not hesitate to contact us.

If you have questions or concerns about any of the information in this email, please
contact SHS.

Thank you for keeping Gallaudet safe and healthy!