December 13, 2021
Dear Cardinal Community,
As we approach the last few days of fall semester, we wanted to share some information with you regarding COVID-19 vaccines and booster shots. First and foremost, thank you for your continued commitment to the College’s COVID-19 vaccine expectation, testing requirements, and other health and safety measures. Because of your efforts to protect yourselves and those around you, we have enjoyed a successful fall semester highlighted by a return of many of the campus activities and events that make North Central College such a special place to learn, work and live.
Looking ahead to spring semester, we want to remind you of the College’s expectation that all members of the campus community be fully vaccinated against COVID-19. Currently, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) considers individuals to be fully vaccinated two weeks after their second dose of a two-dose vaccine (Pfizer or Moderna); or two weeks after a single dose vaccine (Johnson & Johnson).
Regarding COVID-19 booster shots, in November, the CDC updated its guidance stating that everyone ages 18 and over should get a booster shot at least six months after completing their initial two-dose vaccination series, or at least two months after receiving their single-dose vaccination.
Based on this updated guidance, the College strongly encourages all members of the campus community to receive a COVID-19 booster shot as soon as they are eligible.
If you have already received your booster shot (or if you plan to), the College is not currently requiring proof of your booster shot and asks that you not submit proof of your booster vaccination at this time.
COVID-19 vaccines and booster shots are widely available and have proven to be effective in protecting against serious COVID-19 illness and death.
Booster shots will be available at Dyson Wellness Center’s upcoming Flu & COVID-19 Vaccine Clinics on January 11 and February 1 (click on the hyperlink for event details). The clinics are open to all members of the campus community and registration is not required.
Booster shots are also available at local health departments, clinics and pharmacies. To find a COVID-19 vaccine provider near you, go to vaccines.gov or call 1-800-232-0244 (TTY 888-720-7489).
Thank you once again for your part in making this a successful fall semester. We wish you a happy and healthy holiday and look forward to seeing you in January.
Best Regards,
Dr. Peter Barger
Associate Provost, Director of Institutional Effectiveness and Planning Co-Chair, COVID-19 Institutional Response Team
Michael Hudson Vice President for Operations Co-Chair, COVID-19 Institutional Response Team
