Employees, students advised to use caution if traveling during Spring Pause

Augusta University faculty, staff and students who are observing Spring Pause from March 11-12 are encouraged to stay vigilant in the fight against COVID-19, especially if traveling.

Travel and gatherings increase your risk of getting and spreading COVID-19, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

The most important safety steps to take are the 3 Ws:

• Wear a mask to keep your nose and mouth covered when in public settings, including on public transportation and in transportation hubs such as airports and stations.
• Watch your distance and stay at least 6 feet apart to avoid close contact with anyone who is not in your household.
• Wash your hands often with soap and water or use hand sanitizer (with at least 60% alcohol).

In addition, the CDC advises the following:

• Don’t travel if you are sick.
• Don’t travel with someone who is sick.
• Don’t travel if you have been around someone with COVID-19 in the past 14 days.
• Avoid contact with anyone who may be sick, and do your best to avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth.
• Avoid COVID-19 hotspots.

After traveling, the CDC advises to get tested and stay home:

• Get tested with a viral test three to five days after travel and stay home and self-quarantine for a full seven days after travel.
• Even if you test negative, stay home and self-quarantine for the full seven days.
• If your test is positive, isolate yourself to protect others from getting infected.
• If you don’t get tested, stay home and self-quarantine for 10 days after travel.
• Avoid being around people who are at increased risk for severe illness for 14 days, whether you get tested or not.
• Follow all state and local recommendations or requirements after travel.

For more information on COVID-19 prevention, reporting and response at Augusta University, please visit the Campus COVID-19 Resources page.

As a reminder, COVID-19 vaccinations are open to Augusta University and AU Health staff and students who meet the Georgia Department of Public Health’s eligibility criteria. Vaccination opportunities for employees will expand with the March 18 opening of the Employee Health and Wellness COVID-19 vaccination clinic. Initial appointments will be available to all eligible AU Health employees and Augusta University staff. To schedule your appointment, call 706-721-3418.

Please enjoy the break responsibly to protect yourself, your family and friends, and the entire Jaguar Nation.