COVID-19 (Coronavirus) Campus Updates

 

• Confirmed Cases

 

 

Message from the COVID Response Team – 7/15/22

 

Over the past week, we have seen a slight increase in positive cases on campus for COVID-19. These numbers are still low but are an increase from the past several months. If you become ill, do not come into work until you are better. We recommend that you continue to seek medical care from your healthcare provider, test for COVID-19 if you are symptomatic, and keep your supervisor updated. If you test positive for COVID-19, we continue to require that you notify your supervisor and HR so that we can continue to contact trace to maintain a healthy environment on campus.

The latest coronavirus variant BA.5 is part of the Omicron family. The CDC estimates it is causing around 65% of U.S. infections. There is no evidence that BA.5 is more dangerous than any of the other Omicron variants and the CDC reports that vaccines continue to protect against severe illness and death, but not infection.

Yesterday, Governor Pritzker modified his previous COVID-19 executive orders to now exclude higher education from COVID-19 vaccination mandates. This means that both testing and vaccination mandates are not required at Illinois colleges and universities.

We will continue to monitor the situation and provide a safe and healthy campus environment.

COVID Response Team

 

 

Message from the COVID Response Team – 2/28/22

Since the pandemic began two years ago, the University has implemented flexible protocols and policies that have proved effective at reducing transmission and minimized illness on campus. We currently have 0 active COVID-19 cases on campus and a vaccination rate of 98 percent for students and 85 percent for faculty/staff.

Effective immediately, the wearing of masks and face coverings indoors at McKendree University will be optional for everyone except in some specific settings. Face coverings will still be required indoors when required by certain public events and speakers, performers, etc. Protocols for these particular occasions will be clearly articulated in pre-event announcements.

Those who prefer to continue to wear a mask or face covering anywhere on campus are encouraged to do so. We recommend that everyone have a face covering available and may be asked to wear it in private offices or living spaces, based on the preference of occupants. Please keep in mind that none of us understands the private medical challenges that individuals may be experiencing, so please honor and respect the wishes of some members of our campus family in private settings. 

The COVID-19 virus has proved unpredictable and we will continue to monitor and modify campus protocols and policies appropriately. Thank you for your ongoing commitment as we work together to ensure the health and safety of our campus community.

COVID Response Team

 

 

Message from McKendree University – 1/10/22

 

The McKendree University campus will open next week as planned for the Spring semester, with in-person classes starting as scheduled on Tuesday, Jan. 18, 2022.

Since the pandemic began almost two years ago, the University has implemented flexible protocols and policies that have proved effective at reducing transmission and minimized illness on campus. Many of these measures will continue, but some will be modified as we respond to the new Omicron COVID-19 variant. All in the campus community are encouraged to get vaccinated, boosted, wear masks indoors, and follow testing guidance.

Key information in this announcement:

• Classes (in-person and online) will begin as scheduled on Tuesday, Jan. 18, 2022

• All campus students and employees (regardless of vaccination status) must have a negative test prior to start of classes on Jan. 18, 2022

• Free COVID-19 Testing on campus: Jan. 14, 17 & 18 at the Hett circle drive

• Free COVID-19 Vaccination Clinic on campus: Jan. 21 in the Hett lobby

TESTING

In order for residential students to move-in, commuter students to attend classes, and faculty/staff to safely return to work, it is required that all students, faculty, and staff receive a negative COVID-19 test result, regardless of vaccination status, and communicate those results with [email protected] in Health Services (students) or their immediate supervisor (employees) before the beginning of the spring semester.

• Residential students will be tested in Health Services or Athletic Training upon arrival to camp. See detailed instructions here: https://www.mckendree.edu/student-life/res-life/life/move-in-process.php

• Commuter students, faculty and staff should arrange to be tested before returning to campus or participate in the community drive-thru testing clinic on Friday, Jan. 14, Monday, Jan. 17 or Tuesday, Jan. 18 from 9am to 6pm in the Hett circle drive. No pre-registration is required.

We are urging anyone who receives a positive test result or is symptomatic to inform [email protected] in Health Services immediately, isolate or quarantine, and follow the rules associated with those health and safety measures.

VACCINES

We continue to strongly encourage our campus community to get vaccinated and boosted against COVID-19. The Omicron variant of COVID-19 has increased positivity rates in our region, and we are aware that our ability to return to a near-normal spring semester is dependent on the majority of our community members being vaccinated. In accordance with Illinois Gov. Pritzker’s Executive Order 2021-20 issued on Aug. 26, 2021, all Illinois higher education personnel and students on campus must receive the COVID-19 vaccine or test weekly. Individuals that work or take classes exclusively remotely are exempt from this vaccination mandate.

Students and employees (full and part-time) who are fully vaccinated (two doses of the MRNA or 1 dose or J & J) and who did not present their vaccination card to Health Services or Human Resources during the fall semester must:

• Provide a copy of the vaccination card to [email protected] (students) prior to moving into the residential facilities or for commuter students by the first day of classes on Jan. 18, 2022; or to [email protected] (newly vaccinated employees).

• This information will remain confidential within Health Services and Human Resources.

Students and employees who have not yet been fully vaccinated must quarantine, if identified as a close contact to someone who tested positive for COVID-19 and participate in weekly COVID-19 surveillance testing until they provide proof of full vaccination status or have tested positive for COVID-19 in the past 90 days and are cleared by Health Services.

• Unvaccinated individuals must provide their weekly test results to [email protected] (students) or [email protected] (employees) by the end of the business day on Fridays.

Individuals requesting to be exempt in accordance with Section 4.E of the Executive Order 2021-20, must be approved through either Rick Ortega in Human Resources (employees) or the Dean of Students, Dr. Joni Bastian (students).

For those that begin this semester unvaccinated or are eligible for a booster vaccine, we have partnered with SIHF Foundation to provide a Vaccination Clinic on Friday, Jan. 21, from 9am to Noon inside the Hett lobby. The vaccine clinic is open to all students, faculty, staff and local community members. No registration is required and walk-ups are welcome. Please bring a photo ID and original vaccine card to the clinic so the date of your last dose can be verified. Booster doses for the Pfizer-BioNTech, Moderna (mRNA), and Johnson & Johnson (Janssen) vaccine will be available to individuals who have already received two doses of the Pfizer or Moderna vaccine and one dose of the Johnson & Johnson (Janssen), with the second dose being a minimum of five months for the mRNA vaccines and two months for the Johnson & Johnson vaccine prior to the booster shot.

FACE COVERINGS

As a reminder, all faculty, staff, students, visitors and vendors are required to wear masks or appropriate face coverings while indoors. This includes classrooms, labs, communal office spaces, on-campus gatherings, and any campus setting where social distancing is difficult to maintain. Face coverings must fit snugly to the face and above the nose. Neck gaiters, bandanas, face coverings with valves, and face shields should not be worn, except in limited situations, such as athletic practices where masks/face coverings are harder to keep on.

COVID UPDATES

For campus awareness, we will continue to post COVID-19 related announcements and weekly updates on confirmed COVID-19 positive cases on the McKendree website. Click on the confirmed cases link at the top of the page to view the dashboard. This reporting will occur on Wednesdays and include the number of confirmed positive COVID-19 new cases for the week, active and recovered cases, as well as a running total of campus COVID-19 positive cases since Jan. 5, 2022.

These health and safety policies are based on the latest guidelines from the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) and the Restore Illinois Plan, and we will continue to monitor and adapt policies and protocols based on future guidance.

COVID Response Team

 

 

 

Message from McKendree University – 11/30/21

 

McKendree University and SIHF Healthcare will partner again to offer a vaccination clinic on Wednesday, Dec. 1 in the MPCC IM Gym, from 9am to 3pm. First and second dose vaccines will be available to everyone over the age of 12.

Booster doses for the Pfizer-BioNTech, Moderna, and Johnson & Johnson (Janssen) vaccine will be available to community members who have already received two doses of the Pfizer or Moderna vaccine and one dose of the Johnson & Johnson (Janssen), with the second dose being a minimum of six months prior to the booster shot.

No registration is required and walk-ups are welcome for the vaccine clinic. Please bring a photo ID and original vaccine card to the clinic so the date of your last dose can be verified. Masks are required.

COVID Response Team

 

 

Message from McKendree University – 11/23/21

Earlier this month, McKendree University distributed over $2.4 million in federal emergency financial aid grants to eligible undergraduate and graduate students from our allocation of Higher Education Emergency Relief Funds authorized by the American Rescue Plan (ARP). The funds are to help eligible recipients cover expenses for education and/or emergency costs that arise or have arisen because of coronavirus, such as tuition, food, housing, health care (including mental health care), or childcare. More details can be found at https://www.mckendree.edu/offices/business-office/cares-reporting.php  

HEERF grant amounts were determined by using elements of each student’s need (EFC), and their cost of attendance less any institutional aid. The grant was distributed directly to eligible students and was not applied to McKendree student accounts. However, if you have an outstanding balance with the University, you may make a payment to your account once you’ve received your funds by visiting Self-Service online or coming into the office at Wildy Hall, first floor.

An email was sent out the week of November 15 to all eligible students. If you did not receive it, please reach out to the Office of Student Financial Services at [email protected].

 

 

Message from the COVID Response Team – 11/3/21

McKendree University and SIHF Healthcare will partner again to offer a vaccination clinic on Tuesday, Nov. 9 in the MPCC IM Gym, from 9am to 3pm. First and second dose vaccines will be available to everyone over the age of 12; doses for children aged 5-11 years old will not be available at this clinic.

Booster doses for the Pfizer-BioNTech, Moderna, and Johnson & Johnson (Janssen) vaccine will be available to eligible community members over the age of 65 and McKendree faculty and staff members who have already received two doses of the Pfizer or Moderna vaccine and one dose of the Johnson & Johnson (Janssen), with the second dose being a minimum of six months prior to the booster shot.

No registration is required and walk-ups are welcome for the vaccine clinic. Please bring a photo ID and original vaccine card to the clinic so the date of your last dose can be verified. Masks are required.

Additional COVID-19 vaccinations and booster doses are available at local retail locations and healthcare facilities that already administer COVID-19 vaccines. Need help finding a vaccination site near you? Check out the Illinois COVID Vaccination Locator.

COVID Response Team

 

 

Message from the COVID Response Team – 10/20/21

A second dose vaccination clinic is scheduled for Wednesday, Oct. 20 in the MPCC Gym, from 9am to 2pm. The second dose Pfizer vaccine is for individuals who received the first vaccine on Sept. 29. First dose vaccines are available at this clinic, however individuals who receive the first dose will need to find an alternate location for the second dose. 

Booster doses for the Pfizer-BioNTech mRNA vaccine will be available to only McKendree faculty and staff members who have already received two doses of the Pfizer vaccine, with the second dose being a minimum of six months prior to the booster shot, and who meet the FDA and Centers for Disease Control (CDC) recommendations below:

• Individuals 65 years and older

• Adult residents in long-term-care settings

• Individuals aged 18-64 years with underlying medical conditions or who are at increased risk for COVID-19 exposure and transmission because of occupation or institutional setting, based on their individual benefits and risks. The recommendation DOES include individuals working in education (teachers/staff) due to increased risk for exposure and transmission.

Those who received the Moderna or Johnson & Johnson (Janssen) vaccines are not eligible to receive a Pfizer booster dose at this clinic, however the FDA is in the process of approving boosters for both of the vaccines and possible “mix and match” booster shots.

No registration is required and walk-ups are welcome for the vaccine clinic. Please bring a photo ID and original vaccine card to the clinic so the date of your last dose can be verified. Masks are required.

Additional COVID-19 vaccinations and booster doses are available at local retail locations and healthcare facilities that already administer COVID-19 vaccines. Need help finding a vaccination site near you? Check out the Illinois COVID Vaccination Locator.

COVID Response Team

 

 

 

Message from the COVID Response Team – 10/5/21

Our next campus vaccine clinic, scheduled for tomorrow, Wednesday, Oct. 6, has been moved to the Hett from 9am to 4pm. The second dose Pfizer vaccine is for individuals who received the first vaccine on Sept. 15. First dose vaccines are also available at this clinic, however individuals who receive the first dose will need to find an alternate location for the second dose. Booster shots are not available at this clinic.

No registration is required and walk-ups are welcome for the vaccine clinic. Please bring your driver's license to the clinic.

COVID Response Team

 

 

 

Message from the COVID Response Team – 9/29/21

The Centers for Disease Control (CDC) has provided guidance for obtaining a third “booster” dose of vaccine for certain individuals who are already fully vaccinated—two doses completed more than six months ago—with the Pfizer-BioNTech mRNA vaccine.

Based on the FDA’s authorization and CDC recommendations, the following groups are eligible for the Pfizer COVID-19 booster dose:

• Individuals 65 years and older

• Adult residents in long-term-care settings

• Individuals aged 18-64 years with underlying medical conditions or who are at increased risk for COVID-19 exposure and transmission because of occupation or institutional setting, based on their individual benefits and risks. The recommendation DOES include individuals working in education (teachers/staff) due to increased risk for exposure and transmission.

Our next campus vaccine clinic is scheduled for Wednesday, Oct. 6 in the MPCC Gym from 9am to 4pm. The second dose Pfizer vaccine is for individuals who received the first vaccine on Sept. 15. First dose vaccines are also available at this clinic, however individuals who receive the first dose will need to find an alternate location for the second dose. No registration is required and walk-ups are welcome for both vaccine clinics.

Currently booster doses are not available for the clinic, however we are working with our partners and will send updates if that changes. You can schedule booster doses at local retail locations and healthcare facilities that already administer COVID-19 vaccines or you can locate a vaccine provider near you at Illinois COVID Vaccination Locator.

Eligible individuals should bring their original vaccine card to the appointment. Those who received the Moderna or Johnson & Johnson (Janssen) vaccines are not eligible to receive a Pfizer booster dose at this time, per CDC guidance.

Boosters are recommended to prolong protective immunity against COVID-19 because experts are beginning to see reduced protection against mild and moderate disease in certain individuals.

COVID Response Team

 

 

 

Message from the COVID Response Team – 9/27/21

McKendree University is partnering with Touchette Regional Hospital and Southern Illinois Healthcare Foundation to host a vaccine clinic on Wednesday, Sept. 29 from 9am to 2pm in the MPCC Gym.

A second dose vaccination clinic is scheduled for Wednesday, Oct. 6 in the MPCC Gym, from 9am to 4pm. The second dose Pfizer vaccine is for individuals who received the first vaccine on Sept. 15. First dose vaccines are also available at this clinic, however individuals who receive the first dose will need to find an alternate location for the second dose.

No registration is required and walk-ups are welcome for both vaccine clinics. On-campus vaccination clinics are open to all students, faculty and staff and local community members. The CDC recommends people 12 years and older be vaccinated. On the day of your appointment, please remember to bring your photo ID. Masks are required.

Additional COVID-19 vaccinations are available regionally at Walgreens, CVS, Med Express, HSHS Drive-Thru Care in O’Fallon and the St. Clair County Health Department. Need help finding a vaccination site near you? Check out the Illinois COVID Vaccination Locator.

COVID Response Team

 

 

 

Message from the COVID Response Team – 9/15/21

McKendree University is partnering with the Southern Illinois Healthcare Foundation to host a vaccine clinic on Wednesday, Sept. 15 (TODAY) from 9am to 4pm in the MPCC Gym.

In accordance with Illinois Gov. Pritzker’s Executive Order 2021-22, all Illinois higher education personnel and students on campus must receive the COVID-19 vaccine or be tested weekly. Individuals that exclusively work or take classes remotely are exempt from this vaccination mandate.  A FAQ document regarding the executive order is attached.

Two second dose vaccination clinics are scheduled on the following dates:

 

Tuesday, Sept. 21, MPCC/IM Gym from 10am-3pm
2nd dose only Pfizer; Moderna by pre-request (for individuals who received first vaccine on 8/24 or 8/25)
Register

Wednesday, Oct. 6, MPCC Gym, 9am-4pm
2nd dose Pfizer (for individuals who received first vaccine on 9/15)
No registration required, walk-ups are welcome

On-campus vaccination clinics are open to all students, faculty and staff and local community members. The CDC recommends people 12 years and older be vaccinated. On the day of your appointment, please remember to bring your photo ID. Masks are required.

Additional COVID-19 vaccinations are available regionally at Walgreens, CVS, Med Express, HSHS Drive-Thru Care in O’Fallon and the St. Clair County Health Department. Need help finding a vaccination site near you? Check out the Illinois COVID Vaccination Locator.

Team Up Against COVID-19 and get vaccinated! Watch our fourth Team Up Against COVID-19 video PSA below:

 

COVID Response Team

 

 

 

Message from the COVID Response Team – 9/1/21

 

In accordance with Illinois Gov. Pritzker’s Executive Order 2021-20 issued on Aug. 26, 2021, all Illinois higher education personnel and students on campus must receive the COVID-19 vaccine. Individuals that work or take classes exclusively remotely are exempt from this vaccination mandate. Updated McKendree University COVID-19 policies and protocols are outlined below. Please review Executive Order 2021-20 for full details.

IF YOU ARE VACCINATED:

Students and employees who are vaccinated (two doses of Pfizer/BioNTech or Moderna; one of Johnson & Johnson) are not required to participate in weekly surveillance testing.

Students and Employees are now required to provide proof of full vaccination to the University by Sept. 6, 2021.

• Students will do this through Health Services by emailing Lesa Auten

• Employees will do this by bringing a copy of the vaccination card to Human Resources or emailing Rick Ortega 

IF YOU ARE NOT VACCINATED:

Students and employees who have not yet been vaccinated must schedule a COVID-19 vaccination, or demonstrate they are exempt in accordance with Section 4.E of the Executive Order 2021-20.

• Individuals requesting to be exempt must be approved through either Human Resources (employees) or the Dean of Students, Dr. Joni Bastian (students).

• All unvaccinated individuals must participate in weekly surveillance testing until they provide proof of full vaccination status.

• Testing at Health Services: COVID-19 testing is available, however you must schedule your appointment for testing each week in advance.

• Testing off-campus: you must provide your weekly test results to Health Services (students) or Human Resources (employees) by the end of the business day on Fridays.
  

VACCINATION CLINICS

Free COVID-19 vaccinations are available regionally.

• Same-day appointments are available at Walgreens, CVS, Med Express, HSHS Drive-Thru Care in O’Fallon and the St. Clair County Health Department.

• Vaccine clinics offered this week include

Highland District Office from 3:30 to 7:30pm on Sept. 1

Collinsville Middle School from 3:30 to 7:30pm on Sept. 1

Granite City High School from 3:30 to 7:30pm on Sept. 2

SWIC’s Belleville Campus from 3:30 to 7:30pm on Sept. 2

Friedens UCC in Troy from 3:00 to 7:00pm on Sept. 3

• Another on-campus vaccination clinic is scheduled on Sept. 15 from 9am to 4pm in the MPCC Gym (1^st dose Pfizer). Open to all students, employees and local community members over the age of 12 years. Appointments are recommended, but not required. 

• Need help finding a vaccination site near you? Check out the Illinois COVID Vaccination Locator.

Please direct any questions to the COVID Response Team.

Team Up Against COVID-19 and get vaccinated!  Watch our third Team Up Against COVID-19 video PSA below:  

 

COVID Response Team

 

 

 

Message from the COVID Response Team – 8/23/21

 

McKendree will partner with the Illinois Department of Public Health to host vaccine clinics on Tuesday, Aug, 24 and Wednesday, Aug. 25 from 10am to 3pm in the MPCC Gymnasium.  First and second dose Pfizer vaccinations will be available (Moderna second dose by pre-request).  Please secure a vaccination appointment. Use registration code: Mckendree1. The vaccine clinics are open to all students, faculty, staff and local community members. On the day of your appointment, please wear a mask and bring your photo ID.

A list of additional vaccine options through local public health departments, healthcare systems or pharmacies is below:

Clair County Health Department

Elizabeth's Hospital O'Fallon

Walgreens

Need help finding a vaccination site near you? Enter your zip code on Vaccines.gov for COVID-19 vaccinations near you, nationwide or check out the Illinois COVID Vaccination Locator.

We continue to strongly encourage members of the McKendree University community to Team Up Against COVID-19 and get vaccinated!  Watch our second Team Up Against COVID-19 video PSA below:  

COVID Response Team

 

 

 

Message from the COVID Response Team – 8/20/21

 

Campus Face Covering Policy

As a reminder, all faculty, staff, students, visitors and vendors are required to wear masks or appropriate face coverings while indoors. This includes classrooms, labs, communal office spaces, on-campus gatherings, and any campus setting where social distancing is difficult to maintain.

Face coverings must fit snugly to the face and above the nose. Neck gaiters, bandanas, face coverings with valves, and face shields should not be worn, except in limited situations, such as athletic practices where masks/face coverings are harder to keep on.

For campus community awareness, we will continue to post COVID-19 related announcements and weekly updates on confirmed COVID-19 positive cases on the McKendree website. Click on the confirmed cases link at the top of the page to view the dashboard. This reporting will occur on Wednesdays and include the number of confirmed positive COVID-19 new cases for the week, active and recovered cases, as well as a running total of campus COVID-19 positive cases since August 18, 2021.

These health and safety policies are based on the latest guidelines from the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) and the Restore Illinois Plan, and we will continue to monitor and adapt policies and protocols based on future guidance.

COVID Response Team

 

 

 

Message from the Department of Athletics – 8/18/21

 

McKendree Athletics Announces Fan Attendance Policy for 2021-22 Season

LEBANON, Ill. – With the start of the 2021-22 athletics season right around the corner, the McKendree University Athletics Department, following guidance from both the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) and the National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA), plans to allow fans to attend all home athletic contests during the upcoming 2021-22 academic and athletic year, Director of Athletics Anthony Francis announced Wednesday morning.

That announcement followed guidelines that were put in place by the McKendree University COVID-19 Response Team on campus for the coming 2021-22 academic year.

"Given the current trend on the spread of the Delta variant of COVID-19 and the rate of vaccination levels in the Metro East area, we feel like we can provide a safe opportunity for our fans to watch our student-athletes compete in person while also keeping our student-athletes, coaches, employees and game-day workers safe," Francis said. "Of course, we will still continue to monitor the data and the ongoing situation with COVID-19 and continue to adjust policies as we have throughout the pandemic based on guidance from local, state and federal authorities."

Fans will be permitted to attend all outdoor sporting events without face coverings, but fans are asked to continue to follow social distancing at all times, while fans attending home indoor athletic events will be required to wear an appropriate face covering, regardless of their vaccination status pursuant to institutional policy regarding face coverings on campus. Along with wearing face coverings at indoor sporting events, fans will also be asked to remain socially distanced at all times.

Along with allowing fans back into our sporting events this season, fans will be allowed to once again tailgate before home football games on the McKendree campus, but the tailgaters must adhere to campus COVID-19 protocols.

"We are excited this year to once again welcome back fans to our home athletic events," Francis added. "I'm thankful that the GLVC has continued to prioritize the safety of our student-athletes and everyone else involved in helping us host events. We can't wait to see our fans back in the stands cheering for the Bearcats this school year."

This fan attendance policy applies to all home games played on campus and also includes athletic events held at the McKendree Metro Rec Plex in O'Fallon, Ill. Any fans wishing to attend away games that McKendree teams are participating in should visit the athletics website of the host school for their COVID-19 policies.

The Great Lakes Valley Conference and the NCAA have both developed Resocialization of Collegiate Sports for the upcoming 2021-22 academic year that will be utilized to help keep our student-athletes and teams safe while practicing and competing this year.

Department of Athletics

 

 

 

Message from the COVID Response Team – 8/13/21

 

NEW: Based on recently updated guidance from the Illinois Board of Higher Education and the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), McKendree University will require face coverings for all people, including those who are fully vaccinated, in public indoor spaces where others are present, such as lobbies, lounges, hallways, instructional spaces, and organized events.

This policy change is effective Monday, Aug. 16, 2021.

Updates to the COVID Policy for Fall Semester 2021 email sent July 26^th are highlighted below in yellow.

We continue to strongly encourage our campus community to get vaccinated against COVID-19. The Delta variant of COVID-19 has increased positivity rates in our region, and reinforced to us that our ability to return to a near-normal fall semester is dependent on the majority of our community members being vaccinated and following the policies outlined below.

Students who are fully vaccinated must:

• Provide a copy of the vaccination card to [email protected] prior to moving into the residential facilities, attending New Student Orientation, or for commuter students by the first day of classes on Aug. 23, 2021.

• Wear a face covering while inside campus facilities as outlined above.

Students and employees who are not fully vaccinated must:

• Verify they tested negative for COVID-19 before the beginning of the fall semester (72 hours prior to arriving to campus).

• Participate in COVID-19 surveillance testing WEEKLY during the academic year.
  
  

  • Testing at McKendree Health Services is available free of charge.

• Wear a face covering while inside campus facilities as outlined above.

• Quarantine if identified as a close contact to someone who tested positive for COVID-19.

All faculty and staff (full and part-time) must:

• Verify their vaccination status to their immediate supervisor. This information will remain confidential within Human Resources and Health Services.

• Wear a face covering while inside campus facilities as outlined above.

Students and employees who are fully vaccinated, and have tested positive for COVID-19 in the past 90 days, will be exempted from weekly surveillance testing until cleared by Health Services.

For those that begin this semester unvaccinated, we have partnered with the Illinois Department of Public Health and the St. Clair County Health Department to provide the Pfizer Vaccination Clinic on Tuesday, Aug. 24 and Wednesday, Aug. 25, from 10am to 3pm in the MPCC gymnasium.

• Please secure a vaccination appointment.

• Registration code is Mckendree1.

For those individuals who receive their first dose at the vaccination clinics on Aug. 24 and 25, another vaccine clinic for the second dose will be offered on Tuesday, Sept. 21 from 10am-3pm in the MPCC/IM Gymnasium. Registration information to come.

These health and safety policies are based on the latest guidelines from the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) and the Restore Illinois Plan, and we will continue to monitor and adapt policies and protocols based on future guidance.

COVID Response Team

 

 

 

Message from the COVID Response Team – 8/12/21

 

We continue to strongly encourage members of the McKendree University community to Team Up Against COVID-19 and get vaccinated!

Watch the first in a series of Team Up Against COVID-19 video PSA’s below:

 

 

There are multiple vaccination opportunities available through our on-campus vaccination events, local public health departments, healthcare systems or pharmacies. A list of vaccine options is below:

Campus Vaccine Clinics:

Tuesday, Aug. 24  & Wednesday, Aug. 25, MPCC Gym, 10am-3pm

1st and 2nd dose Pfizer (Moderna 2nd dose by pre-request)

Please secure a vaccination appointment.

Use registration code: Mckendree1

Tuesday, Sept. 21, MPCC/IM Gym from 10am-3pm

2nd dose only Pfizer (Moderna 2nd dose by pre-request)

Registration information to come.

Open to all students, faculty and staff and local community members. The CDC recommends people 12 years and older be vaccinated. On the day of your appointment, please remember to bring your photo ID. Masks are required.

Local Health Departments, Healthcare Systems and Pharmacies:

Tuesday, Aug. 17 from 10am to 1pm

St. Paul United Church of Christ, 123 E. Dee St., Lebanon

1st and 2nd dose Pfizer

Walk-ins welcome or pre-register

Use registration code: SCCmobile12

 

Clair County Health Department

Elizabeth's Hospital O'Fallon

Walgreens

 

Need help finding a vaccination site near you?

Enter your zip code on Vaccines.gov for COVID-19 vaccinations near you, nationwide or check out the Illinois COVID Vaccination Locator.

COVID Response Team

 

 

 

Message from the COVID Response Team – 7/26/21

 

We continue to strongly encourage our campus community to get vaccinated against COVID-19. The Delta variant of COVID-19 has increased positivity rates in our region, and reinforced to us that our ability to return to a near-normal fall semester is dependent on the majority of our community members being vaccinated and following the policies outlined below.

Students who are fully vaccinated must:

• Provide a copy of the vaccination card to [email protected] prior to moving into the residential facilities, attending New Student Orientation, or by the first day of classes on Aug. 23, 2021.

Students and employees who are not fully vaccinated must:

• Verify they tested negative for COVID-19 before the beginning of the fall semester (72 hours prior to arriving to campus)

• Participate in COVID-19 surveillance testing during the academic year

• Wear a face covering while inside campus facilities

• Quarantine if identified as a close contact to someone who tested positive for COVID-19

All faculty and staff (full and part-time) must:

• Verify their vaccination status to their immediate supervisor by Friday, July 30 to be exempted from the above mentioned health and safety requirements.

For those that begin this semester unvaccinated, we have partnered with the Illinois Department of Public Health and the St. Clair County Health Department to provide the Pfizer Vaccination Clinic on Tuesday, Aug. 24 and Wednesday, Aug. 25, from 10am to 3pm in the MPCC gymnasium.

• Please secure a vaccination appointment.

• Registration code is Mckendree1.

These health and safety policies are based on the latest guidelines from the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) and the Restore Illinois Plan, and we will continue to monitor and adapt policies and protocols based on future guidance.

COVID Response Team

 

 

 

Message from the COVID Response Team – 7/9/21

 

We look forward to returning the McKendree campus experience to nearly pre-pandemic conditions for Fall 2021, while maintaining prudent protocols that ensure a healthy campus community. Students and employees that live and work on-campus should either get vaccinated prior to returning to campus, or plan to wear a mask and participate in periodic COVID-19 testing until it is determined by health experts that this is no longer necessary. Those that are fully vaccinated can generally resume routine activities without a mask and other protocols.

The policies outlined below are consistent with recent guidance provided by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), and Phase 5 of the Restore Illinois Plan.

Fully vaccinated students and employees:

• are NOT required to wear a face mask inside any university facility or while outside, or verify that they have tested negative for COVID-19 prior to returning to campus for Fall 2021;

• are NOT required to quarantine if they are identified as a close contact of someone who tested positive for COVID-19, and will NOT be required to participate in COVID-19 surveillance testing.

Unvaccinated students residing in University housing will be tested for COVID-19 prior to move-in.

Unvaccinated employees (full and part-time) and commuter students (not residing in University housing) are required to verify that they tested negative for COVID-19 prior to returning to campus for the semester.

Unvaccinated students and employees:

• are required to wear a face masks inside university facilities and engage in physical social distancing;

• are required to quarantine if they are identified as a close contact of someone who tested positive for COVID-19;

• are required to participate in COVID-19 surveillance testing periodically throughout the semester.

In some circumstances, such as student-athletes and students in health career fields of study, vaccinations may be required. These students will be informed of such requirements by directors, program leaders or others in their specific area. 

While campus life may not be exactly as it was pre-pandemic, we look forward to some level of normalcy this fall, including classrooms and workplaces at their usual capacity, and greater attendance at athletic events and public performances. The data on the efficacy of the vaccination is overwhelming and we strongly encourage as many members of our community as possible to be fully vaccinated before classes begin this fall.

We will continue to review and revise policies based on CDC guidance and the Restore Illinois plan. Please continue to do your part to keep our campus community safe.  

COVID Response Team

 

 

 

Message from the COVID Response Team – 6/1/21

Based on new guidance from the CDC, effective Tuesday, June 1, the University will no longer require fully vaccinated individuals to wear masks and socially distance when outdoors on campus. Masks and social distancing are still required for most indoor settings on-campus. Exceptions can be approved for indoor situations involving fully vaccinated employees.  For our non-vaccinated community members, masks are still required outdoors when social distancing is not possible.

Individuals not fully vaccinated or those who are not yet eligible for the vaccine, should continue to wear a mask and maintain social distancing when on campus. Those working on campus with children under the age of 12, should follow these same guidelines. The University reserves the right to adjust protocols for any outdoor events and activities.

Individuals are considered fully vaccinated two weeks after their second dose of the Pfizer or Moderna vaccines, or two weeks after their single dose of the Johnson & Johnson vaccine. Compliance with this latest guidance is through the honor system. In an effort to return to pre-pandemic activities, the University strongly encourages all members of the campus community to get vaccinated.

Some fully vaccinated individuals may choose to continue to wear a mask and/or observe social distancing while on campus, and we ask everyone to fully support them in the spirit of “One McKendree”.

We will continue to monitor the state's plans for a transition to Phase 5 of the Restore Illinois plan, and will review and revise all policies as necessary. In the coming weeks we will share more information about the University's return to campus plan for the fall 2021 semester.

COVID Response Team

 

 

 

Message from President Dobbins – 4/13/21

 

It is hard to believe the spring semester is ending and commencement is rapidly approaching. I urge us all to remain diligent in our efforts to prevent the spread of COVID-19. With limited capacity on-campus ceremonies planned for the Classes of 2020 and 2021 in a few weeks, it is not the time to let our guard down. Let’s continue to stay safe and finish strong!

Looking ahead a bit further, I would like to share some welcome news. As COVID-19 restrictions are gradually lifted in our region, we anticipate a more typical classroom and campus experience at McKendree University this fall.

The State of Illinois and St. Clair County have seen a decline in the COVID-19 positivity rate and an increase in vaccine availability and distribution. Most McKendree faculty and staff members have been vaccinated through the university’s partnerships with HSHS St. Elizabeth’s Hospital, Walgreen’s, and the county health department’s mobile clinic. Others are securing vaccine appointments on their own. The state recently expanded vaccine eligibility for anyone age 16 or older who lives or works in Illinois—including McKendree student workers and those with an on-campus address. More than 22.5 percent of Illinois residents have been vaccinated to date.

This encouraging news enables us to prepare for a more traditional fall semester, including in-person classes, student organization activities, Bearcat athletics, and events at the Hettenhausen Center for the Arts.

The university will continue to adhere to the prevailing state-mandated restrictions for group gatherings according to the governor’s Restore Illinois plan, as well as the Center for Disease Control and Illinois Department of Public Health guidelines, to protect the health and safety of our McKendree community. We will continue to wear our purple masks, wash our hands, social distance, provide testing, and follow quarantine and isolation protocols when necessary.

While campus life may not be exactly as it was pre-pandemic, we look forward to some level of normalcy this fall, including classrooms and workplaces at their usual capacity, and greater attendance at athletic events and public performances.

We will of course remain vigilant and flexible, but I am optimistic that we will return to a vibrant, face-to-face fall semester and 2021-2022 academic year. In the meantime, let’s stay the course and keep our focus as “One McKendree” to protect the health and safety of all.

Sincerely,

Daniel C. Dobbins ’81

President

 

 

 

Update (4/15/21, 3:30pm): The Walgreen’s Vaccine Clinic scheduled for Friday, April 16 at the Hett, has been cancelled. 

Update (4/13/21, 8:00am): The Walgreen’s Vaccine Clinic scheduled for Tuesday, April 13 at the Hett, has been cancelled. Check this web page for updates regarding the clinic later this week.

Update (4/12/21, 10:15am):  We're now accepting both walk-ups and appointments (while supplies last) for Monday, April 12.

 

Message from the COVID Response Team – 4/9/21

McKendree University is hosting a Vaccine Clinic on Monday, April 12, Tuesday, April 13 and Friday, April 16 from 8am to 4:30pm at the Hettenhausen Center for the Arts. We will once again be partnering with Walgreens and the Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH) to provide the one-dose Johnson & Johnson vaccine to the campus community and regional area.

McKendree students, faculty and staff will be offered an exclusive non-appointment, walk-up time block from 8 to 10am on Monday, April 12. Please bring your McKendree ID as proof of campus eligibility. All other times will be open to the public, and by appointment only. There is no residency requirement.

Currently, individuals over the age of 18 are eligible to receive the Johnson & Johnson vaccine. Please scan the QR code on the vaccine clinic flyer to schedule an appointment.

If you live or work in Illinois, you can also register and schedule Pfizer and Moderna vaccines through the St. Clair County Health Department, HSHS St. Elizabeth’s Hospital, or local pharmacies. Students must provide local residency documentation. Residential students can obtain campus documentation by emailing [email protected]. 

COVID Response Team, [email protected]

All updates to the vaccine clinic will be communicated at www.mckendree.edu/COVID.

Walgreen’s Vaccine Clinic FAQ

 

Who is eligible to receive the Johnson & Johnson vaccine at the McKendree clinic? 

Currently in Illinois, individuals over the age of 16 are eligible to get vaccines, however the Johnson & Johnson vaccine is only approved for individuals 18 and older. Children under the age of 16 are not currently eligible to get the vaccine. There are no residency requirements, so individuals from other states and international students are eligible to get the vaccine.

Is the general public eligible to receive the vaccine at the McKendree clinic?

Yes. Vaccines for the community will be scheduled by appointment only, following pre-registration by scanning the QR code on the vaccine flier and based on availability of vaccine.

Can I show up at the vaccine clinic, or do I have to have an appointment? 

Appointments are required in order to plan appropriate supplies and distribution of vaccine. This also helps prevent doses of the vaccine from going unused and encourages social distancing at the vaccination sites. While cancellations can occur during the day, there are no guarantees that individuals who show up without an appointment will be able to get a vaccine.

I am trying to schedule an appointment on the Walgreen’s site, but I am unable to choose a time.  Are appointments still available? 

If time slots do not come up, all vaccine slots are filled. Please continue to check for cancellations or added time slots each day. Once you schedule your appointment (s), you'll receive a confirmation and vaccination consent form via email.

What will happen when I arrive for my appointment?

Consistent with campus policy and safety guidance, all individuals must wear a mask at all times while at the vaccination clinic. Please eat before you arrive for your vaccine. McKendree students, faculty, and staff should bring their McKendree ID and Driver’s License to the clinic. You should also bring your completed vaccination consent form to your scheduled appointment or prepare to fill it out when you arrive. After you receive your vaccine, you will need to remain on site for 15 minutes to allow clinicians to monitor any reactions and take necessary steps. If you have a medical history of severe allergic reactions to vaccines, we will ask you to remain on site for observation for 30 minutes as a precaution.

Where on campus is the vaccine clinic being held?

Walgreens will be facilitating the vaccine clinic at the Hettenhausen Center for the Arts at 400 N. Alton, Lebanon, Ill. 

Any updates to the vaccine clinic will be communicated on this web page.

 

 

 

Message from the COVID Response Team – 3/18/21

The Walgreen's COVID-19 Vaccine Clinic will continue Friday, March 19 from 8am to 4:40pm at the Hettenhausen Center for the Arts. Currently all spots have been reserved for March 19, however Walgreens is working on getting additional vaccines and these will be added to the online scheduler. Please scan the QR code on the flyer to schedule an appointment. If no times show up on the schedule, the slots are filled for the day. Going forward, you must schedule an appointment to get the vaccine. No walk-ins available.

 

There is no residency requirement, and the one dose Johnson & Johnson vaccine will be provided. Individuals in 1A, 1B or 1B+ (high-risk medical) categories, as defined by the Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH), are eligible to schedule and receive the vaccination.

 

COVID Response Team

 

 

Message from the COVID Response Team – 3/17/21

The COVID-19 Vaccine Clinic at the Hettenhausen Center for the Arts has been EXTENDED through Friday, March 19 from 8am to 4:40pm. Individuals in 1A, 1B or 1B+ (high-risk medical) categories, as defined by the Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH), are eligible to schedule and receive the vaccination on Thursday, March 18 and Friday, March 19. Refer to the flyer to schedule an appointment to guarantee your spot. Walk-ins are welcome and there is no residency requirement.

This is an opportunity we are making available to the McKendree University campus community and regional area thanks to a partnership with Walgreens and IDPH.

COVID Response Team

 

 

 

Message from the COVID Response Team – 3/16/21

McKendree University is hosting a Vaccine Clinic on Wednesday, March 17 and Thursday, March 18 from 8am to 4:40pm at the Hettenhausen Center for the Arts. This is an opportunity we are making available to the campus community and regional area thanks to a partnership with Walgreens and the Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH).

Currently in Illinois, those individuals in 1A, 1B or 1B+ (high-risk medical) categories, as defined by IDPH, are eligible to schedule and receive the vaccination. Refer to this link at https://wagsoutreach.com/schedulerLanding or the attached flyer to schedule an appointment. Vaccinations will be done by appointment only. 

If you are not eligible to make an appointment at this time, but would like to receive it, please be patient. McKendree will continue to monitor the progress of the vaccination roll-out in Illinois and share updates periodically about how progress impacts planning for the upcoming academic year. 

Other COVID related updates:

• Surveillance testing continues with 1,573 people tested on campus last month. More information on surveillance testing can be found on our Dashboard.

• The campus community now have a choice of dine-in meal services in Ames Dining Hall and 1828 or selecting a to-go box for carry-out dining. Seating for dining service is limited to a capacity of 50 people at a time, and tables are only available for dine-in patrons. A large tent has been set up in the quad outside of Ames, with tables and chairs, to provide additional outdoor dining opportunities.

• Please remember that the face covering policy for the University was updated during the Fall semester and face masks must fit snugly to the face and over the nose, to help prevent the spread of the virus. Neck gaiters, bandanas, face coverings with valves, and face shields should not be worn, except in limited situations, such as athletic practices. See the full policy in the Student Handbook.

• If you live or work in St. Clair County, and are eligible under the 1A, 1B, or 1B+ categories, you can also register and schedule Pfizer, Moderna or Johnson & Johnson COVID vaccines through the St. Clair County Health Department. Vaccinations will be done by appointment only. Students must provide local residency documentation. Residential students can obtain campus documentation by emailing [email protected].

It is critical that everyone continue to do their part to protect our community.  As a reminder, maintaining social distance, wearing your mask properly, washing your hands, cleaning your spaces regularly, and avoiding large gatherings are going to be vital steps in moving forward. We continue to see the number of active positive cases decrease in our nation, state, and region. Now is not the time to let down your guard. Please remember that Region 4 is still under Restore Illinois’ Phase 4.

COVID Response Team

 

 

 

Message from the COVID Response Team – 3/5/21

Due to a recent decrease in mobile testing numbers, the Illinois Department of Public Health has paused the remaining testing dates at McKendree and other mobile testing sites until further notice.

If you have symptoms and would like to be tested on campus, please contact Health Services at (618) 537-6503 or email [email protected] during regular office hours: Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, 8:30am-4:30pm; Wednesday and Friday, 8:30am-2:00pm. After hours, email [email protected]. There is a fee for on-campus testing.

Please continue to do your part to keep our campus community safe.   

COVID Response Team

 

 

 

Message from the COVID Response Team – 2/22/21

McKendree is hosting several free, drive-thru mobile testing sites on campus in partnership with the Illinois Department of Public Health and St. Clair County Health Department on Wednesday, Feb. 24, Sunday, Feb. 28, and Saturdays, March 6, March 13, March 20 and March 27 in the circle drive by the Hettenhausen Center for the Arts. 

The testing, which will be conducted by licensed State of Illinois clinicians, is open to all regardless of symptoms. We are urging anyone who needs to isolate or quarantine to follow the rules associated with those health and safety measures. If you test positive or have symptoms, please contact Health Services immediately at (618) 537-6503 or email [email protected] during regular office hours: Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, 8:30am-4:30pm; Wednesday and Friday, 8:30am-2:00pm. After hours, email [email protected].

Please continue to do your part to keep our campus community safe.   

COVID Response Team

 

 

 

Message from the COVID Response Team – 2/10/21

McKendree is hosting free, drive-thru mobile testing sites on campus in partnership with the Illinois Department of Public Health and St. Clair County Health Department today, Wednesday, Feb. 10, 2021 and on Saturday, Feb. 13, 2021 from 8:00am to 4:00pm in the circle drive by the Hettenhausen Center for the Arts. 

The testing, which will be conducted by licensed State of Illinois clinicians, is open to all regardless of symptoms. We are urging anyone who needs to isolate or quarantine to follow the rules associated with those health and safety measures. If you test positive or have symptoms, please contact Health Services immediately at (618) 537-6503 or email [email protected] during regular office hours: Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, 8:30am-4:30pm; Wednesday and Friday, 8:30am-2:00pm. After hours, email [email protected].

Please continue to do your part to keep our campus community safe.   

COVID Response Team

 

 

 

Message from the COVID Response Team – 2/5/21

 

Good afternoon,

On Thursday morning, the Illinois Department of Health announced that Region 4 has met all the requirements to move into Phase 4. This shift has eased several of the mitigation measures that we have been under since last semester. In line with these changes, we have made updates to our campus plan.

1. Visitation Policy: As of today, Friday, Feb. 5, residents are now allowed limited visitors in their residence if they live in the same residential building. Students in Baker, Barnett and Walton Halls are allowed one guest. Students in Residence Hall East/West, Hunter Street and McKendree West are allowed two guests. Students in The Suites are allowed three guests. For the safety of our students and staff, no outside visitors or students who do not live in the same residential building are permitted into University residential facilities. See the full policy in the Student Handbook at https://www.mckendree.edu/policies/student_handbook.pdf.

2. Inside Dining. Students will have a choice of dine-in meal services in Ames Dining Hall and 1828 or selecting a to-go box for carry-out dining. Seating for dining service will be limited to a capacity of 50 people at a time, and tables will only be available for dine-in patrons. Everyone will be required to wear masks when not dining at their table. Personal drinking containers are not permitted to be used, or filled, in Ames Dining Hall or 1828 Café. Bogey Bucks will continue to be encouraged to reduce cash transactions and to promote less contact between guests and cashiers. Inside dining will take effect starting on Monday, Feb. 8.

 
Please continue to wear your masks properly, practice social distancing, wash your hands, and clean your spaces regularly. We remain committed to prioritizing the health and safety of our campus community.

COVID Response Team

 

 

 

Message from the COVID Response Team – 2/2/21

 

McKendree will host multiple drive-thru mobile testing opportunities on campus in February in partnership with the Illinois Department of Public Health and St. Clair County Health Department. The first free, mobile testing site is scheduled for tomorrow, Wednesday, Feb. 3, 2021 from 8:00am to 4:00pm in the circle drive by the Hettenhausen Center for the Arts. We will also host mobile testing on Wednesday, Feb. 10, Tuesday, Feb. 16 and Wednesday, Feb. 24.

 

We have attached an IDPH flyer for individuals with information on how to pre-register for COVID testing before arriving on campus. This might help in reducing wait times.

 

The testing, which will be conducted by licensed State of Illinois clinicians, is open to all regardless of symptoms. We are urging anyone who needs to isolate or quarantine to follow the rules associated with those health and safety measures. If you test positive or have symptoms, please contact Health Services immediately at (618) 537-6503 or email [email protected] during regular office hours: Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, 8:30am-4:30pm; Wednesday and Friday, 8:30am-2:00pm. After hours, email [email protected].

Please continue to do your part to keep our campus community safe.   

 

COVID Response Team

 

 

 

Message from the COVID Response Team – 1/29/21

We continue to partner with the Illinois Department of Public Health and St. Clair County Health Department to provide convenient, free mobile testing on campus this semester. Testing is available from 8:00am to 4:00pm on Saturday, Jan. 30 and Sunday, Jan. 31. Drive-thru testing will be in the circle drive by the Hettenhausen Center for the Arts. 

The testing, which will be conducted by licensed State of Illinois clinicians, is open to all regardless of symptoms. 

• If you are tested, and you are experiencing any symptoms of COVID-19, or have been told you were in close contact to someone who tested positive, you should notify Health Services and follow their quarantine guidance while awaiting your COVID-19 test results.

• If you are tested, and you are healthy, have no symptoms of COVID-19, andno known or suspected exposure to someone with COVID-19, you do not need to quarantine while awaiting test results.

• If you are tested, and you are notified of a positive COVID-19 test result, you should notify Health Services immediately and follow their isolation guidance.

We are urging anyone who needs to isolate or quarantine to follow the rules associated with those health and safety measures. If you tested positive or have symptoms, please contact Health Services immediately at (618) 537-6503 or email [email protected] during regular office hours: Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, 8:30am-4:30pm; Wednesday and Friday, 8:30am-2:00pm. After hours, email [email protected].

Thank you for continuing to do your part to keep our campus community safe.   

COVID Response Team

 

 

 

COVID-19 Spring 2021 Return-to-Campus Plan

Spring 2021 Return-to-Campus Plan (PDF)

Dear Members of the McKendree University Community:

I want to start by thanking everyone who worked so hard to make the fall semester a success at McKendree University. We all pulled together as “One McKendree” and we were able to achieve our mission of providing a high-quality educational experience to our outstanding students. Now we prepare for the spring with a sense of optimism and hope. We will continue to use the very best guidance and safety practices available at this time. Just as we adjusted in the fall, we will continue to be flexible this spring.

We offer this document as a “road map” for the Spring 2021 semester. It is important for all who read it to keep three extraordinarily important things in mind. First, this is a living document and it will change as new and better information becomes available. If there is any lesson learned from the last several months, it is that remaining flexible will be central to our success. Second, nothing we have done previously is likely to remain the same. All of us will have to reimagine how we work together. A “can do” spirit and a sense of openness to new ways of doing things will allow us to do our best work. And finally, all of us have a responsibility to follow the social distancing and safety practices outlined in this document for the health and safety of all members of the McKendree family.

Thank you, in advance, for your interest in our plans and for your full participation in helping to make the Spring 2021 semester a successful and safe experience for all.

Sincerely,

Daniel C. Dobbins ’81

President

 

Spring 2021 Return-to-Campus Plan (PDF)

 

CONTENTS INCLUDE:

Introduction

⦁ President’s Message
⦁ Goal
⦁ Guiding Principles

Campus Health & Safety

⦁ Social Distancing and Masks/Face Coverings
⦁ Cleaning, Disinfecting, and Personal Hygiene
⦁ COVID Testing
⦁ Health Services
⦁ Meetings

Academic Affairs

⦁ Academic Calendar
⦁ Instructional Format
⦁ Classrooms and Labs
⦁ Study Abroad
⦁ Holman Library
⦁ Academic Records
⦁ McKendree University Bookstore

Student Affairs

⦁ Residence Life
⦁ Campus Dining Services

Athletic Testing Protocol

Updates to this Plan

 

 

 

Message from the COVID Response Team: Spring 2021 Return to Campus  – 12/22/20

Good evening,

We would like to thank you again for your extraordinary efforts to keep the campus safe during the fall semester. As we look forward to having everyone on campus for the start of classes on Jan. 19, we want to share some important information regarding health and safety for the spring semester. The following Return to Campus guidelines were developed with the safety of the entire University community in mind.

GET TESTED  

In order for residential students to move-in, commuter students to attend classes, and faculty/staff to return to work next semester, it is required that all students, faculty, and staff receive a negative COVID-19 test result.

RESIDENTIAL STUDENTS 

Residential students will be tested in the Office of Health Services upon arrival to campus. A negative test result is required to pick up keys to move-in to your residence. Each student must also sign up for a move-in time on the Residence Life website. 

In some circumstances and depending on the limited availability of isolation housing, students traveling more than 250 miles who are tested upon arrival and who test positive will be assigned to a campus location to isolate. Those within a 250-mile radius will be asked to return to their permanent residence/home until they have completed their quarantine and are no longer contagious. We strongly advise students who are traveling more than 250 miles or traveling by air or other public transportation to be tested before arriving on campus. If the COVID-19 test is taken before returning to campus, documentation of results is required and must include all the following: 

1. results of the test  

2. date the test was administered  

3. name and address of the lab  

4. verification that a nasopharyngeal PCR or antigen test for SARS-CoV-2 was performed  

Residential students who get a positive test result, become ill with symptoms of COVID-19, or are exposed to someone with COVID-19 shortly before they plan to arrive, should delay their travel, contact their health care provider for evaluation, and not come to campus until they have completed their quarantine and are no longer contagious. For professors to be informed of absence, the student must also inform the Office of Health Services. Documentation missing from any of the above information will not qualify and professors will not be notified. Residential students should submit documentation to Lisa Auten in the Office of Health Services. Documentation can be sent via email to [email protected] or by fax to (618) 537-6955.

More specific information about on-campus testing, early arrival, and sign-up times for move-in, is available here. 

COMMUTER STUDENTS

Commuter students (undergraduate and graduate) should be tested after Jan. 13 but before returning to in-person classes. You can schedule a time for a test with the Office of Health Services ($30 fee), via the Patient Fusion portal. You can also contact your health care provider, schedule a test at a local pharmacy, participate in the free Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH)/St. Clair County Health Department mobile testing at the Hett from 8:00 am to 4:00 pm on Jan. 2, 3, 15 or 16; or get a free test at St. Clair Square Mall at 134 St. Clair Square, Fairview Heights. It is open 7 days a week from 8:00 am to 4:00 pm, while supplies last, so go in the morning if possible. If the COVID-19 test is taken off-campus, documentation of results is required and must include all the following:

1. results of the test  

2. date the test was administered  

3. name and address of the lab  

4. verification that a nasopharyngeal PCR or antigen test for SARS-CoV-2 was performed

Commuter students who get a positive test result, become ill with symptoms of COVID-19, or are exposed to someone with COVID-19 shortly before classes start, should not come to campus until they have completed their quarantine and are no longer contagious. For professors to be informed of absence, the student must also inform the Office of Health Services. Documentation missing from any of the above information will not qualify and professors will not be notified. Commuter students should submit documentation to Jennifer Pickerell in Career Services, who will process them for the Office of Health Services. Documentation can be sent via email to [email protected], by fax to (618) 537-6538, or by dropping off negative result documentation in Clark Hall 104.

FACULTY AND STAFF

Faculty and staff (full and part-time) must verify that they are COVID-free to their immediate supervisor before returning to work next semester. You can schedule a time for a test with the Office of Health Services ($30 fee), via the Patient Fusion portal. You can also contact your health care provider, schedule a test at a local pharmacy, participate in the free IDPH/St. Clair County Health Department mobile testing at the Hett from 8:00 am to 4:00 pm on Jan. 2, 3, 15 or 16; or get a free test at St. Clair Square Mall at 134 St. Clair Square, Fairview Heights. It is open 7 days a week from 8:00 am to 4:00 pm, while supplies last, so go in the morning if possible. Employees who get a positive test result, become ill with symptoms of COVID-19, or are exposed to someone with COVID-19 shortly before returning to work, should not come to campus until they have completed their quarantine and are no longer contagious. 

The University will continue to communicate important Return to Campus updates via email and the website. 

We wish all members of the Bearcat community a safe, happy holiday season and semester break. We are looking forward to the spring semester.

COVID RESPONSE TEAM

 

 

 

Message from the COVID Response Team – 12/7/20

This is a reminder that McKendree University is once again partnering with the St. Clair County Health Department and the Illinois Department of Public Health to provide FREE COVID-19 Mobile Testing Sites on campus, on Tuesday, Dec. 8 and Wednesday, Dec. 9 from 8am to 4pm. 

The testing, which will be conducted by licensed State of Illinois clinicians, is open to all regardless of symptoms. Drive-thru testing will be in the circle drive by the Hettenhausen Center for the Arts. 

• If you are tested, and you are experiencing any symptoms of COVID-19, or have been told you were in close contact to someone who tested positive, you should notify Health Services and follow their quarantine guidance while awaiting your COVID-19 test results.

• If you are tested, and you are healthy, have no symptoms of COVID-19, and no known or suspected exposure to someone with COVID-19, you do not need to quarantine while awaiting test results.

• If you are tested, and you are notified of a positive COVID-19 test result, you should notify Health Services immediately and follow their isolation guidance.

We are urging anyone who needs to isolate or quarantine to follow the rules associated with those health and safety measures. If you tested positive or have symptoms, please contact Health Services immediately at (618) 537-6503 or email [email protected] during regular office hours: Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, 8:30am-4:30pm; Wednesday and Friday, 8:30am-2:00pm. After hours, email [email protected].

Thank you for continuing to do your part to keep our campus community safe.   

COVID Response Team

 

 

 

Message from the COVID Response Team – 11/24/20

Good afternoon,

Everyone should be extremely proud of all that we have accomplished this semester as a campus community. The COVID-19 pandemic has added additional stress this semester as we have all made essential shifts in our daily operations to maintain a safe and healthy campus environment.

If you have been approved by the Office of Residence Life to stay on campus over the winter break and have a winter break meal plan, please note that Ames Dining Hall will be open for lunch from 11:30am-1:00pm and dinner from 5:30-7:00pm on Monday, Nov. 30 through Friday, Dec. 11 and Monday, Dec. 28 through Sunday, Jan. 17. Meal times for Saturday, Dec. 12 through Sunday, Dec. 20 will be updated at a later date. Standard mail and package delivery will also be available from 8:00am-5:00pm on Monday, Nov. 30 through Wednesday, Dec. 23.  All package and letter mail will be held over the Christmas break until the University reopens on Monday, Jan. 4.  

If you have not registered for Spring or Summer 2021 classes, online registration is available on selfservice.mckendree.edu from 6:00am to midnight every day, including the Thanksgiving and Christmas Holiday breaks through Thursday, Jan. 17.

While this email will be the last formal COVID message this semester, the University will continue to communicate important Return to Campus updates via email and the website for the spring semester.

Thank you for doing your part to keep yourselves and all members of our campus community healthy and safe. We encourage you to continue to follow the guidance from the Centers for Disease Control and State Health Departments. Please know that you have our best wishes for a successful completion of your fall semester and a safe and happy holiday break.

COVID Response Team

 

 

 

Message from the COVID Response Team – 11/17/20

With the statewide move to Tier 3 and the rapid rise in positive COVID-19 cases in our region, a ‘Stay-in-Residence Advisory’ has been issued for McKendree University residential students, effective Tuesday, Nov. 17 through the end of the semester. Students should only leave their on-campus residences to go to class, work, practice, or for essential needs such as medical care, grocery store, and take-out food from dining services.

In preparation for the winter break, we urge our students to heed the guidance in this Advisory and to continue following health and safety guidelines. We want you to return home healthy for the holidays and reduce any potential spread of COVID-19 to your family and friends.

• For traveling students, the American College Health Association has some suggestions for how to reduce the risk of spreading the coronavirus. Reduce the number of stops while traveling. That means sticking to direct flights or bringing food if driving to avoid restaurant pit stops.

• If you are traveling out of state, educate yourself on policies for returning to your region, including possible mandatory testing and quarantine upon arrival.

• Get an influenza vaccination before leaving campus.

• If you are feeling ill do not travel.

• Limit immediate exposure to family members and adhere to the COVID-19 safety guidelines when you return home - wear a mask, maintain social distancing and wash hands frequently.

Thank you for your efforts this fall semester. The McKendree students, faculty, and staff did an outstanding job caring for others and keeping our community safe.

COVID Response Team

 

 

 

Message from the COVID Response Team – 11/13/20

With the recent spike in positive cases over the last few weeks, we continue to monitor and prioritize the health of our campus community. We are approaching the end of the Fall semester and we continue to urge our entire campus community to stay safe and follow the public health and safety guidelines put forth by the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH), and St. Clair County Health Department. Make sure to wear a mask over both your nose and mouth, maintain six feet distance from others, wash your hands regularly, perform daily self-screening for symptoms, reduce face-to-face interactions on campus, stay home if you are feeling sick, and avoid gatherings in which mask wearing and physical distancing are not required.

We continue to depend on members of the McKendree campus community to proactively notify McKendree Health Services if you are symptomatic or have tested positive, and then to comply with the guidance provided.

COVID Response Team

 

 

 

Message from the COVID Response Team – 11/6/20

This is a reminder that McKendree University is once again partnering with the St. Clair County Health Department and the Illinois Department of Public Health to provide FREE COVID-19 Mobile Testing Sites on campus, on Sunday, November 8 from 8am to 4pm. 

The testing, which will be conducted by licensed State of Illinois clinicians, is open to all regardless of symptoms. There will be a walk-up and drive-thru testing site available. No appointment is needed, and masks and social distancing are required. We encourage the McKendree community to use the walk-up testing option, which will be located on the Quad between Holman Library and Deneen. Drive-thru testing will be near the circle drive by Piper Academic Center. 

• If you are tested, and you are experiencing any symptoms of COVID-19, or have been told you were in close contact to someone who tested positive, you should notify Health Services and follow their quarantine guidance while awaiting your COVID-19 test results.

• If you are tested, and you are healthy, have no symptoms of COVID-19, andno known or suspected exposure to someone with COVID-19, you do not need to quarantine while awaiting test results.

• If you are tested, and you are notified of a positive COVID-19 test result, you should notify Health Services immediately and follow their isolation guidance.

We are urging anyone who needs to isolate or quarantine to follow the rules associated with those health and safety measures. If you tested positive or have symptoms, please contact Health Services immediately at (618) 537-6503 or email [email protected] during regular office hours: Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, 8:30am-4:30pm; Wednesday and Friday, 8:30am-2:00pm. After hours, email [email protected].

Please continue to do your part to keep our campus community safe.   

COVID Response Team

 

 

 

Message from the COVID Response Team – 11/2/20

 

Good evening.

We have a few events scheduled this week that will potentially bring a large number of community members to campus. On Tuesday, Nov. 3, from 6am to 7pm, the Hettenhausen Center for the Arts (Hett) Lobby will serve as an Election Day polling site. If you live in Lebanon and/or have registered to vote with your on-campus address, you can vote in the Hett. Residential students must bring two forms of official identification to the polls – a state driver’s license/state ID and one other form of mail with current Lebanon address. There is also curbside voting available at St. Clair Courthouse, #10 Public Square in Belleville (access in smaller circle in front of the courthouse), for all residents of St. Clair County. Call prior for an appointment at 618-825-2379.

On Sunday, Nov. 8, we will partner again with the Illinois Department of Public Health and St. Clair County Health Department to provide additional FREE COVID-19 Mobile Testing Sites from 8am to 4pm. The testing, which will be conducted by licensed State of Illinois clinicians, is open to all regardless of symptoms. There will be a walk-up and drive-thru testing site available. No appointment is needed, and masks and social distancing are required. We encourage the McKendree community to use the walk-up testing option, which will be located on the Quad between Holman Library and Deneen. Drive-thru testing will be near the circle drive by Piper Academic Center. 

• If you are tested, and you are experiencing any symptoms of COVID-19, or have been told you were in close contact to someone who tested positive, you should notify Health Services and follow their quarantine guidance while awaiting your COVID-19 test results.
• If you are tested, and you are healthy, have no symptoms of COVID-19, andno known or suspected exposure to someone with COVID-19, you do not need to quarantine while awaiting test results.
• If you are tested, and you are notified of a positive COVID-19 test result, you should notify Health Services immediately and follow their isolation guidance.

We are urging anyone who needs to isolate or quarantine to follow the rules associated with those health and safety measures. If you tested positive or have symptoms, please contact Health Services immediately at (618) 537-6503 or email [email protected] during regular office hours: Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, 8:30am-4:30pm; Wednesday and Friday, 8:30am-2:00pm. After hours, email [email protected].

Please continue to do your part to keep our campus community safe.   

COVID Response Team

 

 

 

Message from the COVID Response Team – 10/28/20

Good afternoon,

We continue to see the number of active positive cases increase nationally, statewide and locally. At McKendree, we are not immune to this new wave of positive cases. The data collected through close contact interviews indicates campus increases are attributed to student contact outside of the classroom. While our increased numbers are comparatively modest, we remain committed to prioritizing the health and safety of our campus community.

In line with the newly imposed mitigation measures by the State today, additional on-campus restrictions are necessary as an additional precaution to decrease the spread of COVID-19. These campus mitigations include:

1. No Visitation Policy. Students are not permitted to allow guests into their residential spaces until further notice. At this time only you and your roommates are allowed in your space. If you wish to gather in small groups with friends, we implore you to do this socially distanced and only outside.

2. Practicing in pods. Athletic teams will practice in pods and spread out full-contact practices (especially those teams not in championship segments) to reduce exposure and vulnerability of having to quarantine entire teams. Surveillance testing in Athletics will continue, as it has allowed us to identify COVID-19 positive students, isolate them, and quarantine their close contacts.

3. Take-out dining only. Dining services will move to take-out dining only in Ames Dining Hall, 1828 and the C-Store, starting tomorrow morning. No sit down indoor dining will be permitted until further notice. A large tent will be set up on the quad with outdoor heaters, tables and chairs, to provide an outdoor dining opportunity.

We understand that all these mitigations can be frustrating, and we are all exhausted and worn down by this virus, but these measures are necessary to maintain as safe of a campus environment as possible. To those who are tired of COVID-19 restrictions, we implore you to fight the fatigue and maintain a positive attitude for a few more weeks to enable us to complete this semester.

Please continue to wear your masks properly, practice social distancing, wash your hands, clean your spaces regularly, and offer a kind and uplifting word to your fellow McKendree Bearcats.

COVID Response Team

 

 

 

Message from the COVID Response Team – 10/27/20

Good afternoon,

With the positive numbers of COVID cases rising again in our region we wanted to send out a message updating our campus and encouraging our Bearcat family to continue practicing required public health protocols. St. Clair County has had a spike in positive cases over the past week, including 271 new cases since Friday. These increases have resulted in additional restrictions for our region starting tomorrow, Wednesday, Oct. 28.

Since Friday (Oct. 23), we have confirmed 14 new positive cases among McKendree community members at the Lebanon campus.  We have seen an increase in positive cases in our co-curricular activities, so we have taken extra precautionary measures and quarantined a large number of students who might have been exposed to the virus. All individuals who tested positive are either returning home, staying in off-campus housing to isolate, or are isolating in a University-provided quarantine space.

We continue to depend on members of the McKendree campus community to proactively notify McKendree Health Services if they are symptomatic or have tested positive, and then to comply with the guidance provided. If you experience any symptoms of COVID-19, have a positive COVID-19 test result, or have an exposure to someone who has tested positive, contact Health Services immediately at 618-537-6503 or email [email protected] during regular office hours: Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, 8:30am-4:30pm; Wednesday and Friday, 8:30am-2:00pm. After hours, please email [email protected]. Residential students should contact the Resident Assistant on Duty (Baker, Barnett, and Walton Halls call 618-975-4388; Residence Hall East/West, Hunter St. Apts., and The Suites call 618-304-6366; and McK West Apts. call 618-975-4386), to get further guidance.

It is critical that everyone continue to do their part to protect our community. Please remember that the face covering policy for the University was updated and face masks must fit snugly to the face to help prevent the spread of the virus. Neck gaiters, bandanas, face coverings with valves, and face shields should not be worn, except in limited situations, such as athletic practices. In addition to wearing masks, ensure that you maintain a minimum six-foot social distance from others, wash your hands regularly, stay home if you are feeling sick, and avoid large gatherings.

  
COVID Response Team

 

 

 

Message from COVID Response Team – 10/7/20

Updates have been made to the face covering policy for the University, reflecting the latest public health guidance. Face masks must fit snugly to the face to help prevent the spread of the virus. Neck gaiters, bandanas, face coverings with valves, and face shields should not be worn, except in limited situations, such as athletic practices where masks are harder to keep on. All visitors, faculty, staff, students, and vendors are required to wear a mask or appropriate face covering when inside McKendree facilities. If two or more people are within 6 feet of each other outdoors they must wear a mask.

The University provided two free, reusable cloth face masks to every member of the community at the beginning of the semester. If you did not receive your masks, please reach out to Dr. Joni Bastian at [email protected].

Thank you for following McKendree’s COVID policies, as well as the guidance of public health officials, to protect our community from further spread of COVID-19.

COVID Response Team

 

 

 

Revisions to the Spring 2021 Academic Calendar Announced - 10/2/20

McKendree University announces important revisions to its 2021 spring semester academic calendar. The start of the semester has been delayed by one week, with classes beginning on Jan. 19, 2021. There will also be no spring break week in 2021.

These changes have been made to continue in-person instruction safely by minimizing COVID-19 health risks related to travel and the winter flu season. Delaying the start of the semester and canceling spring break maintains the same number of days of instruction, which is required for accreditation.

Important updates are as follows:

 

-   Tuesday, Jan. 19, 2021 - Spring 2021 semester classes begin

-   No Spring Break week in 2021

-   Final exams week will remain Monday, May 3-Thursday, May 6

-   Commencement ceremonies:

              o   Friday, May 7 - Class of 2020 undergraduates (postponed from May 9, 2020)

              o   Saturday, May 8 - Class of 2021 undergraduates and graduates

 

Classes will not be held and offices will be closed in observance of Good Friday on April 2. At the Lebanon, Ill., campus, classes will not be held on Thursday, April 22, the day of the annual Academic Excellence Celebration. Students are expected to attend AEC presentations, poster sessions and performances on that day.

The University will continue to comply with state and county public health guidelines, therefore instruction and/or events may be held virtually or in-person, depending on the current conditions.

The complete Spring 2021 semester academic calendar is posted on the website.

We appreciate your patience, understanding and flexibility as we continue to address the ongoing and unprecedented challenges of the 2020-2021 school year.

 

 

 

Message from COVID Response Team - 10/2/20

 

Good afternoon,

McKendree will offer additional FREE COVID-19 Mobile Testing Sites on campus on Tuesday, Oct. 6 and Wednesday, Oct. 7 from 8am to 4pm. We will partner again with the Illinois Department of Public Health and St. Clair County Health Department to provide the testing, which will be conducted by licensed State of Illinois clinicians, and is open to all regardless of symptoms. There will be a walk-up and drive-thru testing site available. No appointment is needed, and masks and social distancing are required. We encourage the McKendree community to use the walk-up testing option, which will be located on the Quad between Holman Library and Deneen. Drive-thru testing will be in front of the Hettenhausen Center for the Arts (Hett). 

• If you are tested, and you are experiencing any symptoms of COVID-19, or have been told you were in close contact to someone who tested positive, you should notify Health Services and follow their quarantine guidance while awaiting your COVID-19 test results.

• If you are tested, and you are healthy, have no symptoms of COVID-19, and no known or suspected exposure to someone with COVID-19, you do not need to quarantine while awaiting test results.

• If you are tested, and you are notified of a positive COVID-19 test result, you should notify Health Services immediately and follow their isolation guidance.

We are urging anyone who needs to isolate or quarantine to follow the rules associated with those health and safety measures. If you tested positive or have symptoms, please contact Health Services immediately at (618) 537-6503 or email [email protected] during regular office hours: Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, 8:30am-4:30pm; Wednesday and Friday, 8:30am-2:00pm. After hours, email [email protected].

Finally, we would like to thank the entire Bearcat community for all your recent efforts to mitigate the virus on campus. However, now is not the time to let down your guard. Please continue to do your part to keep our campus community safe.  

COVID Response Team

 

 

 

Message from the COVID Response Team – 9/21/20

 

Good afternoon,

As we start week six of the fall semester, we want to thank the Bearcat community for your diligence in following the University's COVID-19 protocols. The health and safety of our community is our top priority. We are proud to see so many students, faculty and staff abiding by the Bearcat Pledge and doing what is required—while on campus and off—to safeguard one another in order to continue on our path to a successful year.

Last week, we partnered with the Illinois Department of Public Health and St. Clair County Health Department to provide mobile testing on campus. Over 450 individuals participated in the testing, which is the largest single day mobile testing to date. Volunteers from the Health Department were impressed by our community's demonstrated commitment to protect one another by testing, wearing masks and physically distancing.

It is critical that everyone continue to do their part to protect our community. We are urging anyone who needs to isolate or quarantine to follow the rules associated with those health and safety measures. If you tested positive or have symptoms, please contact Health Services immediately at 618-537-6503 or email [email protected] during regular office hours: Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, 8:30am-4:30pm; Wednesday and Friday, 8:30am-2:00pm. After hours, email [email protected].

Thank you for continuing to do your part to keep our campus community safe.   

COVID Response Team

 

 

 

Message from the COVID Response Team – 9/15/20

 

Good afternoon,

This is a reminder that McKendree University is partnering with the St. Clair County Health Department and the Illinois Department of Public Health to provide FREE COVID-19 Mobile Testing Sites on campus, tomorrow, Wednesday, Sept. 16 from 8am to 4pm. 

The testing, conducted by licensed State of Illinois clinicians, is open to all regardless of symptoms. There will be a walk-up and drive-thru testing site available. No appointment is needed, and masks and social distancing are required. We encourage the McKendree community to use the walk-up testing option, which will be located on the Quad between Holman Library and Deneen. Drive-thru testing will be in front of the Hettenhausen Center for the Arts (Hett).  See the flyer for more details.

 

• If you are tested tomorrow, and you are experiencing any symptoms of COVID-19, or have been told you were in close contact to someone who tested positive, you should notify Health Services and follow their quarantine guidance while awaiting your COVID-19 test results.

• If you are tested tomorrow, and you are healthy, have no symptoms of COVID-19, and no known or suspected exposure to someone with COVID-19, you do not need to quarantine while awaiting test results.

• If you are tested tomorrow, and you are notified of a positive COVID-19 test result, you should notify Health Services immediately and follow their isolation guidance.

A large community turnout is possible, so we strongly recommend that students, faculty, and staff allow extra time to get to campus tomorrow, navigate around the outer campus to find parking, and avoid Alton St. near the Hett. 

COVID Response Team 

 

 

 

Message from the COVID Response Team – 9/11/20

 

Good afternoon,

McKendree University is partnering with the St. Clair County Health Department and the Illinois Department of Public Health to provide FREE COVID-19 testing, conducted by licensed State of Illinois clinicians on Wednesday, Sept. 16 from 8am to 4pm.

The testing is open to the entire community, regardless of symptoms, with walk-up and drive-thru options both available. No appointment needed and masks are required. We encourage the McKendree community to use the walk-up testing option, which will be located in the Quad between Holman Library and Deneen. Drive-thru testing will be located in front of the Hettenhausen Center for the Arts.

See flyer for more details.

COVID Response Team

 

 

 

Message from the COVID Response Team – 9/4/20

 

Good afternoon,

With the holiday weekend upon us, we wanted to send out a message urging our Bearcat family to stay safe and to continue practicing required public health protocols. Make sure to wear face coverings in public, maintain a minimum of six feet distance from others, wash your hands regularly, stay home if you are feeling sick, and avoid large gatherings. When you are making plans for this weekend, think about how your decision affects you and could, in a few days, affect the health of your fellow students, co-workers, friends, family and our community.

We continue to depend on members of the McKendree campus community to proactively notify McKendree Health Services if they are symptomatic or have tested positive, and then to comply with the guidance provided. Health Services is available to answer questions about on-campus testing (billed to insurance) and community testing sites (free of charge).

If you experience any symptoms of COVID-19, have a positive COVID-19 test result or have an exposure (within 6-feet for 15 minutes or longer) to someone who has tested positive, contact Health Services at 618-537-6503 or email [email protected] during regular office hours: Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, 8:30am-4:30pm; Wednesday and Friday, 8:30am-2:00pm. After hours, please email [email protected].

Finally, we have made a few changes to our COVID-19 Confirmed Cases Dashboard by adding active cases in isolation and recovered cases. We will continue to update the Dashboard on Tuesday and Friday afternoons. The confirmed cases dashboard can be accessed by clicking the link at the top of the McKendree.edu/COVID campus updates page.

We wish all students and employees a safe and healthy Labor Day weekend.

COVID Response Team

 

 

Message from the COVID Response Team – 8/25/20

We write to provide an update regarding confirmed COVID-19 cases among McKendree University community members.

Since Friday (Aug. 21), we have confirmed 22 additional positive cases among McKendree community members at the Lebanon campus. 

Several of the positive students and employees reported COVID-19 symptoms, while some are asymptomatic. All individuals who tested positive are either returning home, staying in off-campus housing to isolate, or are isolating in University-provided quarantine space. 

St. Clair County has had a spike in positive cases over the last few weeks, including 332 new cases since Friday. We continue to monitor the health of our campus community and the surrounding community. Unfortunately, we have received word that a few students are engaging in activities that are endangering the health and safety of others. Gatherings are taking place that have led to students being exposed to COVID-19. This behavior cannot continue, as it jeopardizes the health and safety of our University community. Student violations for not upholding the COVID-19 campus protocols will be addressed through the student disciplinary process under the McKendree University Student Handbook and students found to be exhibiting behavior that could endanger the health and safety of the University community may face severe disciplinary action.

We know that wearing a mask over both your nose and mouth; maintaining at least 6 feet of distance from others; frequently washing your hands with soap and water; performing daily self-screening for symptoms; and avoiding gatherings in which mask wearing and physical distancing are not required are effective in stopping the spread of COVID-19. To promote health and safety for you and all members of the Bearcat family, we fully expect you to follow all University COVID-19 protocols as a way to care for yourself and others on campus.

We continue to focus on campus health and safety by installing additional Plexiglass shields and hand sanitizing stations in high traffic areas; and by thoroughly cleaning and disinfecting spaces on campus. The spaces identified as high risks for potential exposure are being cleaned by Sodexo staff or an outside cleaning company, based on the guidelines outlined by the Centers for Disease Control (CDC).  We have also shifted internal resources to help the Health Services Office with contract tracing and to coordinate faculty notification of students who have been exposed.

Please feel free to contact the COVID response team with any questions at [email protected].  

COVID Response Team

 

 

 

Message from the Dean of Students

Emailed on 8/24/20

Dear McKendree students,

Please note the updated information regarding COVID-19 protocol:

1.   Please wear a mask in class, in offices and common areas on campus, in the dining areas when you are not eating, and when walking on campus sidewalks within close proximity to others.  Students needing an accommodation for not wearing a mask should submit the appropriate paperwork to: https://cm.maxient.com/reportingform.php?McKendreeUniv&layout_id=10.

2.   If you are a commuting student and did not receive a mask, please stop by the Student Success Center reception desk in lower level Clark Hall. 

3.   Please social distance in public areas when on or off campus.

4.   On-campus and commuter students experiencing symptoms or potential exposure to COVID-19 should quarantine at their place of residence and contact Health Services by phone at 618-537-6503 or email [email protected] during regular office hours: Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, 8:30 am – 4:30 pm; Wednesday & Friday, 8:30 am -2:00 pm.  If you are a residential student and have additional questions during the evenings or weekends, contact the Residence Life staff member on duty.  They will reach out to Health Services as needed and provide you with the Quarantine and Isolation Guide for ordering food and other needs. If you are a commuter student you should contact your medical provider and Health Services, if you are in self-quarantine.

5.   Students who have a positive COVID-19 test result should isolate as directed by Health Services. If you have received a positive test result and not contacted Health Services, do so immediately at (618) 537-6503 or [email protected] during regular hours. After hours, please email [email protected].

6.   Employees experiencing symptoms, potential exposure to COVID-19, or have a positive COVID-19 test result should quarantine at their place of residence, contact their medical provider and  Health Services at (618) 537-6503 or email [email protected] during regular office hours: Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, 8:30 am – 4:30 pm; Wednesday & Friday, 8:30 am -2:00 pm. 

Illinois is currently in the Restore Illinois plan's Phase 4, which has many restrictions.  Stores and restaurants require individuals to wear masks and to socially distance.  St. Clair County has had a spike in positive cases over the last few weeks.  So, please abide by wearing masks and social distancing on campus and off. We do not want to move back to the even more restrictive Phase 3 of the Illinois reopening plan!   Student violations for not upholding the Covid-19 campus protocols will be addressed through the student disciplinary process under the McKendree University Student Handbook. 

If you have questions or need more information, please contact me at [email protected] or by phone, (618) 537-6555. 

Sincerely,

Joni Bastian, PhD

Vice President for Student Affairs
Dean of Students

 

 

 

Message from the COVID Response Team: 8/21/2020 

The health and safety of our students, faculty and staff is the highest priority for McKendree University and we are committed to keeping our campus community safe. Toward that end, the McKendree COVID Response Team will provide weekly updates on confirmed COVID-19 positive cases on the McKendree campus (both IL and KY). This reporting will occur on Fridays and include the number of confirmed positive COVID-19 cases for the week, as well as a running total of campus COVID-19 positive cases.  

Confirmed positive COVID-19 cases will include McKendree University faculty, staff and students who have reported positive test results for COVID-19 and who may have been present on campus during the time of their infection. This week, there were 4 confirmed positive COVID-19 cases and there have been a total of 6 confirmed positive COVID-19 cases since July 20, 2020. These figures include both self-reported cases and positive test results confirmed by a public health agency. Thus, we depend on members of the McKendree campus communities in Illinois and Kentucky to proactively notify McKendree Health Services, and then to comply with the guidance provided. The weekly report does not contain positive cases among University community members who are working or studying remotely and are not known to have been on the McKendree campus while infectious.  

McKendree Health Services is proactively asking students, faculty, and staff who have potentially been exposed, have symptoms, or are awaiting test results, to notify McKendree Health Services and self-quarantine according to CDC and IDPH guidelines. The number of individuals placed under self-quarantine varies daily. It is important for individuals who might have been exposed to COVID-19 to quarantine in order to prevent the spread of the virus that can occur before individuals know they are positive or have symptoms. These individuals should self-quarantine for 14 days and follow the guidance provided by healthcare providers. 

The University works closely with appropriate public health officials to identify individuals who may have come in contact with the virus.  When we become aware of a confirmed or presumed positive (by a healthcare provider) COVID-19 diagnosis, the McKendree COVID Response Team coordinates a number of steps to protect the health and safety of our campus communities, including: sanitizing and disinfecting impacted spaces, assisting in testing students, notifications, and meal delivery to students quarantined and isolated in campus housing.

Direct communication and guidance will be provided to students, faculty and staff that had close contact with an individual who tested positive. Faculty will be notified by the Office of Student Affairs if a student is unable to attend class, but the reason and specific details may not be disclosed. Applicable privacy and confidentiality laws prohibit the University from disclosing personally identifiable information about individuals who have tested positive for COVID-19 and the identities of all known or suspected cases are closely protected and disclosed only on a need-to-know basis.  

Individuals who test positive should notify McKendree Health Services and isolate until symptoms subside, in accordance with CDC guidelines. Isolation spaces are set aside for on-campus residents who cannot return home to isolate. Anyone who is sick or infected should separate themselves from others in the residence by staying in a specific “sick room” or area and using a separate bathroom if possible. Individuals who were sick may return to campus after a minimum 10-day isolation period and they are symptom free for 24 hours without medical intervention. 

According to the Illinois Department of Public Health COVID-19 resurgence mitigation for Region 4 in the state’s Restore Illinois plan, the Illinois Board of Higher Education (IBHE) has confirmed that restrictions to “meetings, social events and gatherings” does not affect classrooms at schools, colleges or universities. McKendree continues to follow IBHE guidelines to maintain classroom sizes to no more than 50. All individuals should continue to maintain a distance of at least six feet, use face coverings and practice hand hygiene consistent with health department guidelines. 

Please feel free to contact the COVID response team with any questions, [email protected].   

Thank you for continuing to do your part to keep our campus community safe.   

COVID Response Team 

 

 

 

Message from the COVID Response Team

Emailed on 8/18/20

The campus is part of the first region in the state to have restrictive mitigations triggered by a recent surge of COVID-19 cases. As we continue to update our protocols to meet recommendations and guidelines from the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH), and St. Clair County Health Department, we wanted to send a few updates and reminders. 

Safety Protocols:

Please help by practicing these simple health and safety practices:

• Wear a mask in class, in offices and common areas on campus, in the dining areas when you are not eating, and when walking on the sidewalk within close proximity to others

• Wash hands and sanitize often

• Practice social distancing in public areas when on or off campus

• Do not bring food and/or drinks into classrooms/academic spaces

 

 

 

Message from the Dean of Students

Emailed on 8/17/20

Dear McKendree students,

We are excited to have all of you  back on campus! It was great to greet many of our returning students and welcome our new students during our "socially distanced move-in process" over the last few weeks!  As I shared with the new students during the NSO Bearcat Expectations zoom meetings, we have some new COVID-19 protocols that are in  place for your safety and that of other Bearcats.

1. Please wear a mask in class, in offices and common areas on campus, in the dining areas when you are not eating, and when walking on the sidewalk within close proximity to others.   Students needing an accommodation for not wearing a mask may submit the appropriate paperwork to https://cm.maxient.com/reportingform.php?McKendreeUniv&layout_id=10.

2. If you are a commuting student and did not receive a mask, please stop by the Student Success Center reception desk in lower level Clark Hall.

3. Please social distance in public areas when on or off campus.

4. ALL Students who have a positive COVID-19 test or who have known contact with a positive patient should report to Beth Allan or Lesa Auten at Health Services (618) 537-6503 or afterhours, (618) 830-2014.  McKendree Health Services will notify the St. Clair County Health Department on behalf of McKendree University.  

 

 

 

COVID-19 Pandemic Return-to-Campus Plan  (2:00 PM on 7/10/2020)

COVID-19 Pandemic Reopening Plan (PDF)

Dear Members of the McKendree University Community:

Perhaps the most asked question in higher education today is, “What will the fall semester look like?” This question is not unique to McKendree, and the responses vary from institution to institution. The truthful answer is, no one knows what the fall semester will hold for colleges and universities across the country with absolute certainty. All we can do as a community is plan a fall semester that meets the needs of our community within the context of the very best guidance and safety practices available at this time.

The President’s Cabinet has been wrestling with these questions since early spring and we offer this document as a “road map” for a return to face-to-face operations. It is important for all who read it to keep three extraordinarily important things in mind. First, this is a living document and it will change as new and better information becomes available. If there is any lesson learned from the last several months, it is that remaining flexible will be central to our success. Second, nothing we have done previously is likely to remain the same. All of us will have to reimagine how we work together. A “can do” spirit and a sense of openness to new ways of doing things will allow us to do our best work. And finally, all of us have a responsibility to follow the social distancing and safety practices outlined in this document for the health and safety of all members of the McKendree family.

Thank you, in advance, for your interest in our plans and for your full participation in helping to make the 2020-2021 academic year the most memorable in McKendree’s long and venerable history.

Sincerely,

Daniel C. Dobbins ’81

President

 

COVID-19 Pandemic Reopening Plan (PDF)

 

CONTENTS INCLUDE:

Introduction

⦁ President’s Message
⦁ Goal
⦁ Guiding Principles

Campus Health & Safety

⦁ Social Distancing and Masks/Face Coverings
⦁ Cleaning, Disinfecting, and Personal Hygiene
⦁ Health Services
⦁ Meetings

Academic Affairs

⦁ Academic Calendar
⦁ Instructional Format
⦁ Classrooms and Labs
⦁ Study Abroad
⦁ Holman Library
⦁ Academic Records
⦁ McKendree University Bookstore

Student Affairs

⦁ Orientation
⦁ Residence Life
⦁ Campus Dining Services

Updates to this Plan

 

 

SPECIAL ANNOUNCEMENT  (4:00 PM on 6/08/2020)

McKendree University Fall 2020 Semester Update

Fall 2020 Academic Instruction – Revised Calendar

McKendree University is pleased to announce a revised Fall 2020 Academic Calendar as we anticipate welcoming students back to campus.  While there is still some uncertainty about how parts of our on-campus experience may continue to be affected by the pandemic, we are confident our students will receive the excellent academic experience they deserve. We are pleased to announce we will resume instruction on campus for Fall semester classes on Monday, August 17, 2020, with a modified calendar.  This modified calendar is intended to limit COVID–19 exposure on campus while still allowing students the opportunity to enjoy an on-campus experience.  Students will be encouraged to remain on campus for the duration of the fall semester, and return to campus on January 10, 2021, following Winter Break, in preparation for spring classes to begin on January 11, 2021.

Fall semester academic instruction for fully online courses will be taught as usual with modified start and end dates, as indicated below. 

Please note these important dates:

 

MCKENDREE UNIVERSITY

FALL 2020 ACADEMIC CALENDAR

AUGUST 17 START DATE

 

Monday, August 3		August Four-Week Classes Begin
Saturday, August 29		August Four-Week Classes End
August 12-16		New Student Orientation
Monday, August 17		Classes Begin
Friday, August 21		Last day to withdraw from a course with a 100% refund
(5th day of class)		Last day to add a course*
		Last day to withdraw from a course without receiving a “W”*
Friday, August 28 (10th day of class)		Last day to withdraw from a course with a 75% refund
Monday, September 7		Labor Day – No Classes
Tuesday, September 15		Last day to withdraw from a course with a 50% refund
October 1-4		Homecoming
Thursday, October 8		1st Half Semester Classes End
Friday, October 9		Fall Break – No Classes
Monday, October 12		2nd Half Semester Classes Begin
Tuesday, November 10 (60th day of class)		Last day to withdraw from a full semester course
Tuesday, November 24		Last Day of Regular Class Sessions
November 30-December 3		Final Exams (taken virtually) (Monday – Thursday)

 

*These dates apply to full-semester courses.  Please see half-semester calendars for one-month and eight-week withdrawal dates.

All add/drop forms must be submitted by 5:00 pm on the deadline day.

Additional details regarding the Fall 2020 semester will be forthcoming.  We remind students and their families that McKendree University’s primary concern remains to protect the health, safety and well-being of our students, faculty and staff from the threat of the COVID-19 virus. University leaders meet regularly to assess the situation and to update contingency plans. Actions are taken in accordance with safety guidelines provided by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), federal and state agencies; executive orders issued by Illinois Governor JB Pritzker; the Illinois Department of Public Health’s Restore Illinois recovery plan; and the St. Clair County Health Department.

 

 

 
Limited Return to Work (5/15/20)

As the University transitions into Summer 2020, the timing of our fiscal year requires us to recall some employees back to their offices on campus to perform essential duties that their job or department requires. Employees may be working on site on a broader basis than we have experienced since the statewide stay-at-home order was issued in March.

Employees who have not been recalled back to campus by their supervisor should continue to work remotely from home. Any employee who has been recalled but is in a high-risk, protected group, should contact their supervisor, who will work with the Human Resources Office to accommodate them. A medical certification of their status may be required.

The University will be taking measures consistent with, and in some cases exceeding, the minimum standards of the governor’s five-phase Restore Illinois public health plan. As an institution within the Southern Region (EMS Regions 4 & 5) anticipating an eventual move from Phase 2 (flattening) to Phase 3 (recovery), the University will observe the following guidelines:

• Where possible, employees will continue to work remotely during Phase 3.

• Practice social distancing by providing individual workspaces with a minimum 6-foot radius.

• The 8-hour, Monday-Friday workday may move to a staggered or more flexible schedule to further minimize interactions between staff members. Supervisors must approve any proposed changes to the regular work schedule.

• Face masks or face coverings are not required inside the office, however masks will be required during in-person meetings when participants cannot effectively social distance.

• When moving about the campus, employees, students and visitors should maintain at least six feet of distance and wear a face mask when possible.

• Employees should limit both their movement around the campus and their interaction among co-workers whenever possible.

• When possible, meetings will be conducted electronically via Zoom or Microsoft Teams and instant messaging will be utilized when feasible. If meetings cannot be conducted virtually, participants will maintain appropriate physical distancing and wear face masks or face coverings.
• Exterior doors to office buildings will be locked and access will be restricted to only those who work in those buildings.
• Hand sanitizer and disinfectant products will be available for routine and additional cleaning so employees can frequently clean their own workspaces.
• An employee who is ill, has symptoms of COVID-19, and/or a fever of 100.4 or higher, should notify their supervisor. They should not return to work until they are symptom-free for 24 hours.

The University has relaxed its dress code for the summer, allowing employees to dress comfortably while maintaining a “business casual” appearance.

The University will continue to review and revise its guidelines as necessary to follow the recommendations issued by the governor and the Illinois Department of Public Health. Stay safe and be well!

 

 

SPECIAL ANNOUNCEMENT

McKendree University Response to Coronavirus Outbreak (Updated at 3:00 PM on 4/30/2020)

 

McKendree University’s response to the global outbreak of COVID-19 continues to evolve. Our primary concern remains to protect the health, safety and well-being of our students, faculty and staff. University leaders are meeting regularly to assess the situation and to update contingency plans. Actions taken are in accordance with safety guidelines provided by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), federal and state agencies, and the “shelter in place,” stay-at-home executive order issued by Illinois Governor JB Pritzker, in effect through Thursday, April 30, 2020. The governor’s latest, modified stay-at-home order takes effect on May 1 and extends through May 31, 2020. Updated information is as follows:

Academic Instruction

Summer academic instruction for fully online courses will be taught as usual. Summer face-to-face and blended courses will be taught in a remote format.

Students should check their McKendree email account and Brightspace on an ongoing basis.

If students have questions about their course work, they should contact their instructors.

Holman Library

The library is not open, but all services are available electronically through the Holman Library webpage and librarians are working remotely.

Housing

Students who wish to live in University-owned housing over the summer may do so on an as-approved basis only. Please refer to the Residence Life web page.

Students who remain in University housing without approval will be subject to disciplinary action and removal.

Students who still have belongings in University-owned housing should consult the Residence Life web page to make arrangements to claim them. Students who are approved and remain in University-owned housing should continue to “shelter in place.”

Students who are approved and remain in University-owned housing and are diagnosed with COVID-19 will be isolated. Students who are approved and remain in University-owned housing and have come into direct contact with someone who has been diagnosed with COVID-19 will be quarantined. The University will provide delivered Food Service to isolated and quarantined students. There are no suspected or confirmed cases of COVID-19 in the McKendree University community.

All of these limitations will be strictly enforced and students who do not comply with these restrictions will be removed from University housing.

Students are not permitted to allow any guests into the residential areas at any time. This includes other students, even if they are approved to stay on campus.

If a student becomes ill while on campus, they should immediately notify University Health Services at: (618) 537-6503 or after hours at (618) 830-2014.

For questions about housing, please contact the Office of Residence Life at: (618) 537-6548.

Food Service

Food Service during the summer months will be provided as required. Specific questions regarding Food Service can be directed to: (618) 537-6985.

Commencement

The University is committed to celebrating the accomplishments of its graduates in an appropriate manner. The Class of 2020 is invited to gather on Friday, May 7, 2021, at 2:00 p.m. on the front lawn. This future date allows the Class of 2020 undergraduates and their families time to plan to return to campus and to celebrate in a way that their Commencement ceremony was intended.

Commencement for the Class of 2020 graduate students will be held on Saturday, May 8, 2021, at 2:00 p.m., where they will join the Class of 2021 in a ceremony on the front lawn.

Commencement for the Classes of 2020 and 2021 at the Radcliff, Kentucky, campus will be held on June 10, 2021.

University Offices and Facilities

All University offices and facilities are operating remotely. University personnel are monitoring email and phone messages on an ongoing basis.

The Office of Student Affairs has office hours from 10:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m., Monday – Friday, until further notice.

If you have specific questions about student accounts or if you need to make a payment by phone, please call the Business Office at (618) 537-6868.

University Faculty and Staff

Due to the extended “shelter in place” stay-at-home order issued for the State of Illinois, University offices remain closed and ONLY designated essential personnel—or those who have been, or will be, asked to return—should report to the campus. These individuals have been notified by their supervisors.

Effective May 1, all essential employees reporting to campus for work should wear a face covering when in proximity of others, as mandated by the State of Illinois. Guidelines on appropriate face coverings for the general public can be found on the Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH) website at:

Instructions on how to make a cloth face covering can be found on the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) website at:

https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/prevent-getting-sick/diy-cloth-face-coverings.html

If you have NOT been designated essential personnel, you should NOT return to the campus until further notice.

If you are ill, notify your supervisor immediately.

In the case of an emergency, please contact Public Safety at 618-537-6911.

Updates will continue to be communicated via the University website (mckendree.edu), McKendree email and social media (Facebook, Twitter, Instagram). University officials continue to proceed with caution and we understand some decisions and actions taken may cause inconvenience or disruption. Thank you once again for your patience and cooperation as we meet these challenges together.

 

 

 

A Message from President Dobbins (Updated at 4:08 PM on 3/17/2020)

To the members of the McKendree University Community:

At this moment in time, it is difficult to comprehend all that has changed in the last two weeks.  For each of us I know the reaction to the current health crisis sweeping across the world, and now the United States, is different, and the challenges and disappointments that are coming with those changes are significant.

The purpose of this letter is to acknowledge all of those feelings and to let you know my goal as the President and our goal as a leadership team is to support the feelings and efforts of all in our community.  One community, one McKendree!

As we have acknowledged in previous communications, my overriding concern is the well-being of our students, faculty and staff.  This is an ever-changing landscape, and I promise you that we will continue navigating through this challenging time together.  All we can be sure of is there will continue to be significant course corrections along the way.  We will continue to do everything possible to communicate clearly, to provide you with a menu of options allowing each of you to determine the best course for you personally, and to provide you with the resources necessary to make informed decisions.

To the faculty and staff, let me extend my deepest gratitude for your diligent work.  Our faculty have shown great resilience making changes in curriculum delivery and reimagining how our commitment to a high-touch, deeply personal education can be moved to an online format.  Our staff has also shown tremendous strength as we have divided our work force into on-site and off-site teams, and are now operating offices on campus with a limited on-site workforce.  I know this creates challenges for both groups and I applaud your willingness to adapt to new work paradigms.  I am humbled by your efforts.

To our students—particularly our Class of 2020 seniors—my heart goes out to you all.  I can only imagine the range of emotions you must feel as you navigate an end to the academic year that is dramatically different from what you imagined, and one we still cannot fully predict.  To our seniors specifically, the end of the college academic experience is always filled with mixed emotions.  The desire to get on with your life and move boldly ahead; the celebration of all that you have accomplished; and the apprehension and anticipation of a new chapter in your life.  As soon-to-be McKendree graduates, we know you are well educated, strong, and resilient.  Our community has every confidence that no matter how complex the end of your collegiate experience is, you will do amazing things.  I also want to pledge to you, that if something prevents us from celebrating fully all of your accomplishments in May, I am committed to finding a time when we will celebrate as a community all that you have contributed to McKendree through your academic career.

I want to close by saying the 192-year history of McKendree University has seen more adversity than any single one of us will.  After those 192 years, the fact that McKendree is still here and still thriving stands as testimony to what resilience means.  Now, each of us will have the opportunity to make our own contributions to McKendree’s resilient history.  I am committed to making sure, when we move beyond this moment, we will emerge as strong and united as ever.  Thank you for all you are doing to help ensure a strong McKendree for tomorrow!

Sincerely,

Daniel C. Dobbins ’81

President

 

 

What is COVID-19 (Novel Coronavirus or 2019-nCoV)?

COVID-19 is a newly identified coronavirus that is causing an outbreak of pneumonia illness. It was first identified in December 2019 in the city of Wuhan, Hubei Province, China. Since then, the virus has been identified in multiple other countries, including cases in the U.S.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), human coronaviruses are common throughout the world and usually cause mild to moderate illness in people. This new virus is a public health concern because:

• It is newly identified, so much is still unknown about it.

• Two other human coronaviruses, MERS-CoV and SARS-CoV, have caused severe illness.

What is the risk?

The CDC considers this new virus a public health concern based on current information. However, the immediate health risk to the general U.S. public is considered low at this time. The CDC and the World Health Organization are closely monitoring the situation and providing ongoing guidance.

Symptoms and transmission:

Symptoms may be flu-like, ranging from mild to serious, and include:

• Fever

• Cough

• Difficulty breathing

Person-to-person spread is occurring, although it’s unclear exactly how it is transmitted and how easily the virus spreads between people.

For updated information, clarification, and travel restrictions:

Centers for Disease Control (CDC) website: https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/index.html

Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH) website: http://www.dph.illinois.gov/

Take action to help prevent the spread of respiratory viruses:

 

• Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. If soap and water are not available, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer.

• Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth with unwashed hands.

• Avoid close contact with people who are sick.

• Stay home when you are sick.

• Cover your cough or sneeze with a tissue (or your sleeve), then throw the tissue in the trash.

• Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces.
  
  

Recommendations for people with respiratory symptoms:

IF you have symptoms of fever, cough, and/or difficulty breathing AND in the last 14 days you:

• Traveled to Wuhan, China or other affected region OR

• Had close contact with someone who had traveled to Wuhan, China or other affected region and had respiratory symptoms

You should:

• Seek medical care right away. Before you go to a doctor’s office or emergency room, call first and tell them about your recent travel and your symptoms. McKendree University students may call McKendree Health Services at 618-537-6503 during business hours and Public Safety at 618-537-6911 at night. McKendree Health Services offers advice by phone to help save students a trip to Health Services or the Emergency Room.

• Do not travel while sick. Please do not use public transportation. Try to avoid contact with others.

• Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue or your sleeve (not your hands) when coughing or sneezing.

• Wash hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. Use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer if soap and water are not available.

What is the campus Health Services doing about 2019-nCoV?

McKendree University is coordinating with St. Clair County Public Health, the CDC and WHO travel alerts, and University stakeholders regarding its response. McKendree Health Services has implemented CDC guidelines for additional screening for recent international travelers.