Spring Semester Update

Dear LSU Community,

We continue to collaborate closely on the pandemic with LSU’s Health and Medical Advisory Committee, which consists of medical doctors, epidemiologists, engineers and biomedical researchers from across the state. As we approach the semester break and look ahead to the spring, I want to assure you that we are closely monitoring the Omicron variant of COVID-19.

Currently, our plans for the spring include full capacity in classrooms and dining halls, and no restrictions on campus events. Masks will be optional, except in the Student Health Center since it’s a medical facility, and on all LSU buses as long as there is a federal mask mandate for public transportation. The isolation and quarantine protocols used this fall will remain unchanged in the spring. Wastewater testing and testing of unvaccinated individuals will also continue this spring.

For those who leave campus over the semester break and are not vaccinated, a COVID test will be required upon your return. (Is there a date yet for when the tests will be due? A way for people to submit their results? If not, we can say more information on this is forthcoming.)

Please be aware that all of these protocols for the spring are subject to change if the situation with the Omicron variant changes, particularly with regard to positivity rates within our community and our state. While we all want to have a more “normal” spring, we must do everything possible to protect the health and safety of our community.

Meanwhile, the Health and Medical Advisory Committee recommends vaccines and boosters for those who meet the criteria outlined by the Louisiana Department of Health. Booster shots,vaccines and COVID tests are available at these campus locations. The Student Health Center also offers flu shots, and the Medical Committee recommends those as well, since cases of flu are on the rise.

Please use caution over the holidays, when people will gather in large groups with those who have not been part of their “bubble.” We recommend wearing masks at group gatherings and staying home if you are sick. And don’t forget to take precautions around those who cannot get vaccinated, such as children under 5, and those who are more at risk for breakthrough infections, such as those with compromised immune systems.  

Thank you again for all you have done to keep campus safe, and I hope you all enjoy the well-deserved break. Happy holidays to you and yours, and I look forward to seeing you all back on campus in January, happy and healthy!  

 

Warmly,

William F. Tate IV

LSU President