Student COVID-19 vaccination information update
Dear students,
Welcome to those of you returning to campus for the first time since fall semester. I am glad that a review of COVID-19 data and trends on campus and in the community by the VCU Public Health Response Team supports the decision to allow classes to return to their planned modality at this time.
Many of you and your families have questions about vaccinations. Currently, the Virginia Department of Health (VDH) is managing the vaccination process and local health districts and pharmacies are coordinating vaccinations. I encourage you to visit their site, Vaccinate.Virginia.gov for more information and to pre-register for a vaccination so that you will be ready when you qualify.
If you are contacted by the VDH to make an appointment for vaccination, I encourage you to do so. This is a critical step in reducing the spread of COVID-19 infection and reducing the risk of infection for you, your families and our community. A number of students in clinical placements are currently eligible under VDH guidelines and have been contacted by their Deans and invited to vaccination clinics on campus. The university is working through VDH and VCU Health to plan larger vaccination clinics on the Monroe Park and MCV campus as vaccine supply increases. We are hopeful to be able to offer vaccination to all of our students, faculty, staff and contractors who want it. More information about vaccination is available on the vaccine FAQ page and it will be updated as conditions change.
I know the pandemic has brought difficulties and frustration to all of us. And I want to say once again how proud I am of our students for meeting this challenge by following all of the safety protocols. Even after receiving a vaccination, it is important to continue wearing face masks, maintaining six feet of distance, avoiding large social gatherings and frequently washing your hands. Your ongoing commitment to following these safety measures allows us to take this important step.
Regards,
Charles Klink, Ph.D.
Senior Vice Provost
Division of Student Affairs