Here is the current information related to university operations and programs. The latest information is available on the UO coronavirus information website.

NEW:

• The University of Oregon and Oregon State University are joining forces to do COVID-19 community testing in Eugene and Springfield November 7 and 8 to help Lane County Public Health understand the prevalence of the virus in the community. Learn more in this Around the O story.
• UO leaders sent a message to students about how to safely celebrate Halloween during the pandemic.
• COVID-19 testing reservations are available November 2-6 on a first-come, first-served basis to all UO employees and students not currently experiencing symptoms. Offered through UO’s Monitoring and Assessment Program (MAP), testing is free. Pre-registration is required via the MAP Registration Portal. For more information, visit Around the O Workplace.

REMINDERS: 

• The Oregon Health Authority has redefined a close contact as someone who has been within six feet of a COVID-19 case for at least 15 cumulative minutes during their contagious period. This is an update to the initial definition, emphasizing that exposure can be cumulative, through a series of shorter-duration exposures, and does not have to be 15 consecutive minutes. REMEMBER to stay at least six feet away from people outside your household, even for short conversations. And wear your masks.
• Where can students get tested? University of Oregon students in Lane County can be tested for COVID-19 through University Health Services on campus, their regular health care provider, and many testing facilities around town. Lane County Public Health provides information on known testing facilities and community testing. Additional information about where to go for COVID-19 testing and how your costs might be covered is in the frequently asked questions of the university’s testing, contract tracing, and case management information.
• How do contact tracers use my info? If you are contacted by a contact tracer, you will help protect the community by engaging. Your privacy will be protected, and non-identifiable information will only be shared as necessary for public health. Learn more about the how the Corona Corps is assisting Lane County Public Health in their contact tracing work and is offering support and services to people with the virus.
• How can I reduce my risk of contracting COVID-19?
  • Keep groups small and limited to only people you know.
  • Wear masks or cloth face coverings.
  • Remember that exposure is defined as being within six feet of a COVID-19 case for at least 15 cumulative minutes during their contagious period.
  • Wash your hands or use hand sanitizer after touching common surfaces.
  • Don’t share drinks, vapes, or utensils.
• What should I do if I test positive or think I’ve been exposed to COVID-19? Review the COVID-19 exposure scenarios and guidance for students and employees and complete the case and contact form for guidance and support.   

RESOURCES:

• Health and wellness: Information on positive case management, contact tracing, and what to do if you suspect you have COVID-19.
• Resources for students: Information on support, guidance, and tips.
• Resources for faculty, staff, GEs, and student workers: Information on remote work, benefits, leave, and other support.
• Resources for instructional faculty and graduate educators: Information on remote teaching.

GENERAL INFORMATION:

• There were 10 members of the UO community who tested positive or were considered presumptive positive for the week of October 26 as of 10:00 a.m. today. A total of 525 members of the UO community have tested positive for COVID-19 since reporting began. Information about known cases within the UO community is updated by 10:00 a.m. Monday through Friday.
• The Oregon Health Authority reports 43,228 confirmed and presumptive COVID-19 cases in the state, 2,451 cases in Lane County, 9,401 in Multnomah County, and 259 in Coos County as of October 29.
• The university continues to work in close coordination with the Oregon Health Authority and our companion institutions and agencies. Additional resources are available from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the Oregon Health Authority, and your health care provider.
• As a reminder, the best way to prevent illness is to avoid being exposed to the virus. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention outline some general precautions to minimize the spread of respiratory diseases.