Coronavirus Disease (COVID-19)

University of Mississippi

COVID-19 Weekly Digest

Wednesday, October 22, 2020 COVID-19 updates

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University News

Time for flu shots
  • Operation Immunization is providing flu shots to the Ole Miss community for one more day on Oct. 27 from 1-4 p.m. at the South Oxford Center Parking Garage at 2301 S. Lamar Blvd. See 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: Monday-Thursday, 7:30 a.m.-5 p.m. and Friday, 9 a.m.-5 p.m.
  • Employees can get a flu shot at Employee Health as well by calling (662) 915-6550.
  • Seasonal influenza vaccinations are now available for children and qualifying adults at all Mississippi State Department of Health (MSDH) county health departments. To locate a county health department clinic in your area or for more information on flu, visit the MSDH website.
 
University COVID-19-related news stories

Student News

Hosting social gatherings
The university has launched a pilot to expand student social activities safely. The pilot is a two-week process to allow some off-campus social gatherings under delineated parameters and requirements. See Oct. 19 message to students for details.
Zoom rooms available
Students on campus who need a place to Zoom for a remote or hybrid course may use a Student Zoom Room on campus. These spaces are designed for students to bring their computer and sit at a desk/table for their Zoom session. Zoom Rooms are not designed as study stations, but rather as a place to sit for an hour or two to Zoom for a course while on campus. Check out the Keep Learning site for a complete list of Zoom Room spaces.
Writing Center workshops
During the week of Oct. 26, the Writing Center will offer live online workshops on MLA and APA citation and formatting styles. Each workshop will cover the following topics:
  • How to format a student paper
  • Basics of in-text citation; some special rules/cases
  • Common types of bibliographic citations 
  • “Check your work” breakout sessions (work directly with writing consultant mentors in small groups)
Visit the Writing Center page for dates and times. Registration is limited to 20 participants per session and will close 24 hours prior to the start time.
Research poster design for beginners workshop
A free online workshop for basic design elements found in academic research posters will be held Oct. 22 from 3-4:30 p.m. Sponsored by the University of Mississippi Libraries, the workshop will also review and discuss research poster examples to identify best practices and style options. Registration required. Visit this page to register.
Student Success Workshops 
Check out upcoming dates and topics of virtual Student Success Workshops hosted by the Center for Student Success and First Year Experience (CSSFYE). No registration required. Visit the CSSFYE site for details to attend each workshop. 
  • Oct. 26 at 11 a.m. — Note-Taking Strategies 
  • Nov. 5 at 11 a.m. — Test Prep Planning

Other Things to Know

Gov. Tate Reeves’s Executive Order 1527 – Oct. 19, 2020
CDC expands definition of who is a ‘close contact’ of an individual with covid-19
 
City of Oxford Board Meeting – Oct. 20, 2020
 
City of Oxford Upcoming Events
 
5 Ways Families Can Prepare as Coronavirus Cases Surge
 
Can Halloween Be Saved? Yes, Experts Say. Here’s How.
 
CDC: Steps to take when Trick-or-Treating
 
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.

Wednesday, October 14, 2020 COVID-19 updates

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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.

Wednesday, October 07, 2020 COVID-19 updates

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University News

Revised Spring 2021 academic calendar and commencement plans
The university released a modified academic calendar for the spring 2021 semester, as well as details regarding Commencement activities for 2020 and 2021 graduates. Highlights include:
  • Martin Luther King Jr. holiday (UM closed) will remain on the calendar for Jan. 18, 2021.
  • Classes will begin as originally scheduled on Tuesday, Jan. 19, 2021.
  • Spring break will be canceled to complete the semester as quickly as possible while mitigating risks associated with travel. This has been widely adopted as a best practice in the current environment by universities across the country.
  • Good Friday holiday (UM closed) will remain on the calendar for April 2, 2021.
  • Classes will end April 23, 2021, which is one week earlier than previously scheduled.
  • Final exams will be completed by April 30, 2021.
  • Class of 2021 Commencement — The main ceremony and most individual ceremonies will be held Saturday, May 1, 2021. Some individual ceremonies may take place the day before or day after May 1. Details about individual ceremonies will follow.
  • Class of 2020 Commencement — The main ceremony and most individual ceremonies will be held Saturday, May 8, 2021. Some individual ceremonies may take place the day before May 8. Details about individual ceremonies will follow.
    • Note: The Class of 2021 ceremony will precede the 2020 ceremony because 2021 graduates will already be in Oxford completing final exams in the week leading up to the Commencement ceremonies.
For more information, read the full message or see the academic calendar for Spring 2021 on the registrar’s site.
 
Updated guidance about hosting events and gatherings
The university updated its guidance about events, activities and social gatherings hosted by members of our university community, including registered student organizations as well as academic and administrative units. The guidance covers on-campus and off-campus gatherings.
Read the full message.
 
Extended Friday hours at J.D. Williams Library
J.D. Williams Library will now be open until 5 p.m. on Fridays. For more information on building hours for the Williams and Science Libraries, go to https://libraries.olemiss.edu/calendar-hours/.
 
Museum galleries & exhibitions
UM Museum galleries and exhibitions are open to university faculty and students by appointment.
Schedule your individual visit or class Museum tour.
 
Get your flu shots
Upcoming dates for Operation Immunization to provide flu shots to the Ole Miss community will be 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 its regular hours of operation: 7:30 a.m.-5 p.m. Mondays-Thursdays and 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Fridays.
 
University COVID-19-related news stories

Student News

Mental wellness drop-ins
The University Counseling Center hosts Mental Wellness Drop-ins every Thursday from 10–11 a.m. Visit counseling.olemiss.edu for the Zoom link.
 
Yoga in the Grove
On Thursday, Oct. 8, the William Magee Center for AOD and Wellness Education is hosting a Spiritual Wellness Event called “Yoga in the Grove” from 5:30–6:30 p.m. at the Grove Stage. Students will be led through a Yoga Relax session to promote spiritual wellness. Students will need to bring their own mask and yoga mat. Registration is required.
 
Pumpkin painting, free food, and music
Join the Leadership and Engagement Ambassadors for pumpkin painting, free food, and music on Tuesday, Oct. 13 from 5–7 p.m. on the Union Plaza. See more information.
 
Fitness
The Ole Miss Fitness Program provides a variety of programs, equipment, and staff to University of Mississippi students, employees, and community members, so that each individual may achieve his or her total health and wellness goals. Visit this page for more information about our facilities and programs.

Other Things to Know

City of Oxford current COVID-19 restrictions & guidelines as of October 1, 2020 
 
Oct. 15 deadline for counties and municipalities to apply for MEMA’s COVID-19 Emergency Relief Program
 
UM Museum virtual family activity days
 
8 myths about the flu shot you need to stop believing (especially this year)
 
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.

Wednesday, September 30, 2020 COVID-19 updates

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University News

Face coverings required
As outlined in the Campus Ready plan, the university established parameters and protocols based on recommended preventive measures issued by public health officials and will continue to adhere to a mask mandate to limit the spread of coronavirus. This university mandate aligns with current guidance from the City of Oxford for wearing face coverings in public settings. While Gov. Tate Reeves announced Wednesday that he was lifting the statewide mask mandate, local governments have the authority to institute their own measures. All faculty, staff, students and visitors are required to comply with the requirement to wear a face covering properly in any indoor setting when in the presence of other people, or outdoors when it is not possible to maintain at least six feet between yourself and others. The Oxford Board of Aldermen is scheduled to meet Thursday, Oct. 1 to discuss the status of the local mask mandate. 
 
Sentinel Testing Program
The university has created a dashboard to share data about the Sentinel Testing Program. The dashboard is housed on the same page as the COVID-19 dashboard and can be found by scrolling down the page. The Sentinel Testing Program dashboard will be updated each Friday. Since the week of Sept. 7, the university’s Sentinel Testing Program offered free COVID-19 tests to asymptomatic members of the university community. The Sentinel Testing Program is designed to provide university officials with a better understanding of the virus’s presence among asymptomatic carriers and how it spreads on campus. Participation will be an important factor in decisions to adjust campus social restrictions. An overview of the program and FAQs is available on the COVID-19 website, or you can learn more in this news story about the program.
 
Get your flu shots
Operation Immunization will provide flu shots to the Ole Miss community on Oct. 6, 15, 21 and 27 from 1-4 p.m. each day. 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. 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. Be sure to check out this article from the University of Mississippi Medical Center about the importance of a flu shot amid the COVID-19 pandemic.
 
MSDH COVID-19 testing for university students and employees
The Mississippi State Department of Health (MSDH) offers universal testing in every county for college and university students, faculty and staff, including symptomatic and asymptomatic testing. You can be tested free of charge at any county health department testing location 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) and you will need to complete an online questionnaire and make an appointment before you visit.
 
University COVID-19-related news stories

Student

Workshops and tutoring
Check out resources from the Center for Student Success and First-Year Experience, including student success workshops, tutoring resources and supplemental instruction support.
 
Study abroad planning by country
For information on prospective countries of study, the Office of Global Engagement maintains a list of international restrictions, visa availability and flights. The information is to assist in making an informed decision about a country of study and whether there may be a better choice based on the ability to enter and have a valuable, in-person experience in the spring. The list is updated every Monday. 
All Majors Video Career Expo 
  • Tuesday, Oct. 6 from 12 noon–4 p.m.
  • Internships and full-time jobs 
  • Must register on Handshake to attend
  • Network with CSpire, Enterprise, Community Bank, Insight Global, FedEx, Walgreens and other employers
Ice cream giveaway
Enjoy a FREE frozen treat on the Student Union Plaza with the Student Activities Association on Wednesday, Oct. 7 from 11 a.m.-2 p.m. See more information.

Other Things to Know

How to build rapport … while wearing a mask (Harvard Business Review)
 
How to select, wear, and clean your mask
 
City of Oxford COVID-19 Trick or Treating Guidelines
 
On the Lighter Side
  • The Nose Knows: Sniffer dogs trained to recognize COVID-19 scent on arriving passengers on a trial at Helsinki’s airport (NYT article)
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.

Wednesday, September 23, 2020 COVID-19 updates

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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.