Coronavirus Disease (COVID-19)

University of Mississippi

Wednesday, September 23, 2020 COVID-19 updates

University News

Video Message from Provost Noel Wilkin
Provost Noel Wilkin issued a video message this week about the status of the university more than a month into the semester. He discussed how we are managing various items including quarantine procedures and testing capacity as well as how we are refining our policies and mitigation strategies. Dr. Wilkin also encouraged the campus community to remain vigilant with adhering to the protocols as we look ahead to planning for the spring.
Tailgating
In accordance with Executive Order 1519, all gameday social gatherings on campus are strictly prohibited. This includes all tailgating, picnics and informal gatherings on campus. The ban applies to fanfare areas outside the stadium, including all green and other gathering spaces on campus. Areas such as the Grove and the Circle will be open for pedestrian traffic only. If you plan to host a gameday party off campus, please note current limitations in the City of Oxford are a maximum of 10 participants indoor and 25 participants outdoor.
 
Universal COVID-19 testing offered by MSDH for university students and employees
The Mississippi State Department of Health (MSDH) announced this week that universal testing is now available in every county for college and university students, faculty and staff. This offer includes symptomatic and asymptomatic testing. You can be tested free of charge at any county health department testing locations listed on this page, or daily at the free testing site in Jackson. Testing is offered at these locations only on scheduled days (see complete list of locations and testing days here). 
You will need to make an appointment before you visit by filling out an online questionnaire. You will receive an appointment regardless of whether you have COVID-19 symptoms or have been in contact with someone who is infected. When completing the online questionnaire, be sure to provide answers through the fourth question, which asks, “Are you a student, faculty, or staff member of a Mississippi college or university?” When you respond “yes,” you will have options to choose a location and select a date and time.
 
Flu shots
The CDC recommends annual influenza vaccination for everyone 6 months and older. While getting a flu shot will not protect against COVID-19, vaccination has many other important benefits. Flu vaccines have been shown to reduce the risk of flu illness, hospitalization and death. Getting a flu shot this fall will be more important than ever, not only to reduce your risk from flu but also to help conserve potentially scarce health care resources.
 
The UM chapter of the American Pharmacists Association Academy of Student Pharmacists is conducting its annual Operation Immunization to provide flu shots to the Ole Miss community. The cost is $40, which can be billed to most insurance plans. UM students, faculty and staff should bring their Ole Miss ID and prescription insurance card. Costs not covered by insurance can be charged to Bursar accounts.
 
The vaccine will be offered in a drive-thru setup at the South Oxford Center Parking Garage at 2301 S. Lamar Blvd. COVID-19 symptoms and temperatures will be checked. Operation Immunization will take place from 1-4 p.m on Oct. 6, 15, 21 and 27.
 
The flu vaccine is also available at Pharmacy Health Services, located inside the V.B. Harrison Health Center on campus, during its regular hours of operation: Monday-Thursday from 7:30 a.m.-5 p.m. and Friday from 9 a.m.-5 p.m.
 
Social gathering limitations
The university’s current guidelines for gatherings are as follows: 
  • Social gatherings/activities shall be limited to a maximum of 10 participants indoor and 25 participants outdoor. 
  • In accordance with current CDC recommendations, wear masks, use social distancing and limit physical contact by maintaining a distance of at least 6 feet or more from people who don’t live in your household. 
Note that these guidelines align with the current limitations outlined by the City of Oxford’s Serving Oxford Safely Recovery Plan (updated Sept. 16, 2020).
 
University COVID-19-related news stories

Students

Gameday the safe way
When celebrating gameday, every little safe decision you make adds up. Here’s what you can do be safe:
  • Wear a mask. This is especially important when the game gets going. Yelling and cheering should all happen behind a mask.
  • Avoid large or packed crowds. It’s no fun to watch the game alone, but limiting the number of people you watch with will go a long way. Celebrating outside lets you move around if things get too close.
  • Don’t share food or drinks. Think burgers instead of BBQ, canned beverages instead of pitchers, or bring your own if you’re not sure what will be served.
Check out more tips about gameday.

Faculty & Staff

Working on campus on gameday
For faculty and staff planning to work on campus Saturday, Sept. 26 during gameday activities, please make sure you have proper identification and keys or swipe access for your building. With the campus closed to tailgating, buildings will be locked and not open to the public. You must have a parking pass to get on campus, or make plans to park near campus and walk, since campus will be limited to pedestrian traffic. Please be mindful not to prop open doors or allow unauthorized access to the building. For more information, contact Donna Strum.

Other things to know

CDC Guidance: Personal and Social Activities
 
Ole Miss Gameday Information
On the Lighter Side
Important Links
University studies and surveys
There are university studies and surveys underway that welcome your participation. Below is information on how you can learn about them and participate.