Dear Elmhurst University Community:

A total of six positive cases were reported this week. We are pleased with the direction we are headed. Much work still needs to be done to protect our fellow Bluejays. Please continue to protect your fellow Bluejays by wearing properly-fitted masks and staying home when you are not feeling well.  And, you can never wash your hands too often.

Recently, Governor Pritzker said, “If these trends continue, and we expect them to, then on Monday, Feb. 28 we will lift the indoor mask requirement for the state of Illinois.” Governor Pritzker also said that local jurisdictions and businesses may still require stricter rules than the state, and must be respected.

The COVID-19 Task Force meets on Monday, February 14, 2022, to discuss the mask mandate. From there, the Task Force will make a recommendation to the President and the Board of Trustees. In the meantime, Elmhurst University still has an indoor mask mandate. Masks must continue to be worn inside all University-owned and -operated facilities.

We ask that you please be patient with us as we determine the course of action that will best suit the health and safety of our Bluejay community.

Reported Positive Cases:

• The number of reported positive cases from February 5–February 11: 6
• The number of reported positive cases for February: 12
• The number of reported positive cases since January 1: 196

Testing:

• Rapid tests are available in the Faganel Lobby on Tuesdays from noon–3:00 p.m. (Please note the change to one day a week.)
• PCR tests are available on Wednesdays from noon–3:00 p.m. in the Faganel Lobby. You must register 24 hours prior to PCR testing. Please submit your request only once, and make sure that all fields on the form are accurate and complete before sending. Weekly registration will be available for the next test date only. No registration is necessary for those who are required to test weekly.

Additional Information:

• If you have any symptoms or a fever, please stay home and remain home until you are symptom- and fever-free for at least 24 hours.
• Wear a well-fitted mask (non-cloth masks such as KN95, N95, or surgical masks are highly recommended) in all University-owned and -operated facilities. Your mask should cover both your nose and mouth.
• Wash your hands thoroughly and often on a daily basis. Use hand sanitizer whenever possible.
• If you test positive for COVID-19, please complete the Self-Reporting Form.

Please be safe and stay healthy!

Bluejay Proud!
COVID-19 Task Force