Have a Safe and Healthy Thanksgiving!

As Thanksgiving approaches and students, faculty and staff plan to spend time with friends and family, please remember we all have a shared responsibility to Protect Your Owl Family. Following safety protocols and recommendations will limit the impacts of COVID-19 on our campuses, as well as locally and across the country. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) advises against travel for the Thanksgiving holiday and offers guidelines to help everyone celebrate safety.

Students and employees need to continue reporting to Student Health Services (SHS) if experiencing symptoms, are exposed to COVID-19 (even if out of the area) or test positive. SHS is responding to reports, contact tracing and virtually providing services throughout the holiday weekend. 

Based on recommendations issued by the State University System of Florida Board of Governors, it is advised that students, faculty and staff adhere to the following:

Wear A Mask!
Guidance from the CDC stresses the need to wear a mask for your protection and the protection of those around you. Wear a mask that covers your mouth and nose. Face shields and scarfs do not offer protection from the virus.

Get Your Flu Shot.
It is more important than ever to get a flu shot during this year’s cold and flu season. Visit the Student Health Services website for up-to-date information and schedules. There is no cost for students, faculty and staff.

Continue To Make Good Choices.
Remember to stay home and get tested if you are sick or were in contact with someone with COVID-19. You may not be at high risk yourself, but you might encounter others who have conditions that put them at risk of serious illness.

If You Must Travel … Travel Wisely.
Reduce the number of stops on the trip. Take a direct flight if possible, and if driving, pack food/snacks. Carry and use hand sanitizer (with at least 60% alcohol) frequently. Use a disinfecting/sanitizing wipe to clean any touchable surfaces in the vehicle you are traveling. Consider a COVID-19 travel kit, including such items as face mask, hand sanitizer, disinfecting wipes and tissues.

Limit Interactions.
COVID-19 is the worst house guest. Keep your guests to a minimum, spend as much time outside as possible and open the windows, or consider celebrating virtually to help reduce the chance of infection and spread.

Be Safe When You Get Home.
Keep your grandparents and other at-risk family members safer by choosing celebrations that keep friends six feet apart, masked and outdoors.

If you are planning on traveling or spending time with family and friends, consult the following CDC websites for further information:

• Travel During the COVID-19 Pandemic
• Holiday Celebrations and Small Gatherings

General questions related to the COVID-19 situation should be directed to FAUCOVID19@fau.edu.

As a reminder, the university will be closed on Thursday, Nov. 26 and Friday, Nov. 27. Best wishes for a safe and healthy Thanksgiving!