Coronavirus Disease (COVID-19)

University of Mississippi

Wednesday, October 14, 2020 COVID-19 updates

University News

Don’t be a spreader! Get your free COVID-19 test!
Did you know that you can carry COVID-19 and infect others EVEN if you show no symptoms of the virus? Check your email for your invitation to get a free COVID-19 test for asymptomatic members of the university community through the Sentinel Testing Program. Testing is offered twice a week in the Ford Center media parking lot, where you can drive through or walk up to the testing area. Getting tested takes less than five minutes and results are usually available within a few hours. 
The Sentinel Testing Program assesses the asymptomatic presence of coronavirus in our community. Identifying carriers who don’t show symptoms adds another tool to protect our community. This testing program also enables us to predict the number of asymptomatic carriers and better understand virus spread.
 
Get your flu shots
Operation Immunization will provide flu shots to the Ole Miss community on Oct. 15, 21 and 27 from 1-4 p.m. each day 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. Read this article for more information. The flu vaccine is also available at Pharmacy Health Services inside the V.B. Harrison Health Center on campus during regular hours of operation: 7:30 a.m.-5 p.m. Monday-Thursday and 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Friday and 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Friday. Employees can get a flu shot at Employee Health as well by calling (662) 915-6550. 
 
Prevent Zoombombing
“Zoombombing” occurs when hackers infiltrate a non-secure Zoom meeting and cause disruptions, often in graphic and upsetting ways for organizers and participants. This list of tips can help you protect virtual events, programs, and classrooms. The UM Bias Education and Response Team can offer support for those who experience or witness Zoombombing or other acts of bias. For information or resources related to remote teaching, Zoombombing, or general IT questions, please call or email UM’s IT Help Desk for support: (662) 915-5222 or helpdesk@olemiss.edu. 
 
University COVID-19-related news stories

Student News

Student Success Workshops
Student Success Workshops for the Fall 2020 semester hosted by the Center for Student Success and First Year Experience (CSSFYE) will be delivered virtually. Dates and topics are listed below:
  • Oct. 15, Noon — Reading Strategies
  • Oct. 21, Noon — Time Management Techniques
  • Oct. 26, 11 a.m. — Note-Taking Strategies 
  • Nov. 5, 11 a.m. — Test Prep Planning
No registration required. Visit the CSSFYE site for details to attend each workshop. If you require accommodations or assistance due to the impact of a disability, please contact Jeremy Roberts at (662) 915-2230 or jtrober1@olemiss.edu.
 
Graduate Writing Center
The Graduate Writing Center is offering Quick Question Live Support (via Zoom) five days a week, during the following hours:
  • Monday: 8–11 a.m.
  • Tuesday: 12 noon–2 p.m. and 6–8 p.m.
  • Wednesday: 8 a.m.–1 p.m.
  • Thursday: 10 a.m.–3 p.m.
  • Friday: 12 noon–2 p.m.
Visit the Graduate Writing Center site and click the  “Quick Question?” option.
 
Get involved on campus
Looking to talk to fellow students about getting involved on campus? The Leadership and Engagement Ambassadors offer one-on-one meetings to connect interested students with campus organizations and involvement opportunities. Sign up here for in-person consultations or email leambassadors@go.olemiss.edu with any questions.
 
Activities around campus
The Student Activities Association is an organization formed by students to promote the activities of student life through special events, pageants, musical entertainment, and Homecoming Week activities. Check out some of the activities around campus right now.
 
Take care of all your healthcare needs on campus
The healthcare professionals at Student Health Services offer resources that are cost-effective, efficient, and available to all students. At Student Health Services, wait times are minimal with a scheduled appointment and there is no copay or deductible. Visit the University Health Services website or connect with them on Instagram. To schedule an appointment, call (662) 915-7274. They are open Monday–Friday from 8 a.m.–5 p.m. (except Thursday from 8 a.m.–4 p.m.).

Other Things to Know

CDC Director Redfield suggests masks may be more effective than a coronavirus vaccine
 
Identify different symptoms of flu and COVID-19
 
Oct. 15 Global Handwashing Day
 
Trick or Treating and other Halloween activities
 
Rossen Reports: Fall survival guide ranks popular activities (video)
 
The first semester of college has never been stranger
On the Lighter Side
 
Quick 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.