To Our Campus Community:
As we reach the midpoint of the semester, we are writing to thank all members of our UMKC community for the responsibility and commitment you have demonstrated as we worked together to control the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic. Thanks to your efforts, we have kept the disease in check at a manageable level on campus.
It is important now that we not take our efforts to date for granted, or grow complacent. We have all seen too many examples of people getting sick and spreading the disease to others when they let down their guard. Even common, everyday activities with friends and family like carpooling or gathering together for a meal can carry a higher risk of exposure, despite everyone’s best intentions to stay safe.
We are moving into the colder weather months. That means we’ll all have less opportunity to socialize – at a distance, of course – in the safer open-air environment. Temptation to gather in groups indoors will grow. Now, more than ever, we must heed the advice offered in this student video and remember to maintain physical distance and wear masks in the company of others, both on and off campus.
We again urge you to visit our campus COVID-19 website regularly for up to date information on confirmed cases on campus, CDC-recommended health and safety practices, and our campus protocols for both preventing and reporting infections. Per these notification protocols for students and employees, please remember that all members of the UMKC community are required to report a positive COVID-19 test within four hours of receiving it. To report during business hours, students should call the UMKC HelpLine at 816-235-2222; employees should contact their HR Business Partner. After hours and on weekends, all should report by calling 816-235-COVI.
Health authorities are recommending that people get the flu vaccine this year. Flu shots are available to students through Student Health and Wellness. We are offering on-campus flu vaccinations to all faculty, staff and their dependents.
Please take extra care over the next few weeks, particularly with regard to personal health. Download the free Campus Screen mobile app to help you track your health, and please stay home and contact your health-care provider if you have symptoms or have any concerns about possible exposure to someone who has tested positive for COVID-19. Free COVID-19 tests are available through the Kansas City Health Department; click here for information.
The finish line for the semester is in sight. Stay safe, protect yourself and others, and Roo Up!
In this together,
C. Mauli Agrawal, Ph.D. Jenny Lundgren, Ph.D.
Chancellor Provost
