Messages to Faculty, Messages to Staff, Messages to Students, Messages to the Community

Increase in COVID-19 Cases on Campus

December 10, 2022

Dear Members of the Georgetown University Community,

I’m writing to inform you that we are experiencing an increase in the COVID-19 virus detected in wastewater on campus, which means there are individuals on campus who already have or are developing a COVID-19 infection. Some individuals may not be aware of their infection. Since September 2022, we have been using wastewater surveillance testing to help monitor public health conditions on campus. In recent days, we have been tracking the highest rates we have seen on campus since we started this type of testing. This concerning trend is consistent with the reported overall increase of COVID-19 cases nationally.

As we conclude the fall semester and many community members prepare to travel during the winter break, please consider taking the precautions below to protect yourself, other Georgetown community members and your family and friends in the days ahead.

  1. Take a PCR test (especially after a known exposure) because some infections can be asymptomatic or may not be identified as accurately by an antigen test.
  2. Wear a properly-fitted, high-quality mask (e.g., N95, KN95, KF94) when indoors, around crowds or during group gatherings. Wash your hands frequently.
  3. Monitor yourself for symptoms consistent with COVID-19.
  4. If you have any symptoms:
    • stay home, seek to take examinations remotely, and do not go to libraries, labs, work or social gatherings;
    • complete the COVID-19 Symptom Check-In survey through the GU360 mobile app or website;
    • call the Student Health Center or your health care provider, if needed;
    • take a COVID-19 test; and
    • do not return to class or work until cleared by your health care provider or after a consultation with the Care Navigation team.
  1. If you receive a positive test result:
    • Report positive results from an antigen test or PCR test taken off campus to Georgetown through the COVID-19 Test Result Submission Form in a timely manner.
    • Georgetown’s Care Navigation team will provide guidance regarding isolation.

Employees may use COVID-19 Paid Time Off (PTO) or sick leave following their department’s established call-in procedures or by submitting a request in GMS, based on your department’s established practice.

I hope you have a healthy and happy holiday season, and please reach out to the Care Navigation team at carenavigators@georgetown.edu with any questions.

Sincerely,
Ranit Mishori, M.D., MHS, FAAFP
Professor of Family Medicine, Vice President and Chief Public Health Officer