December 10, 2021
Thank you to all who have Armored Up and taken precautions to protect the health and safety of all members of the UCF community.
I am pleased to share that Student Health Services has administered nearly 24,000 COVID-19 vaccine doses in 2021. This figure includes a recent increase in demand for booster shots, which continue to be offered at the Student Health Center (holiday hours may vary) and at a convenient location near you.
Because the steps we are all taking are keeping positive cases at UCF very low, I do not expect our COVID protocols to change. Here is what you need to know for the holidays and the spring semester:
Getting Vacci-Knighted: Vaccines are still the best way to prevent severe illness and death from COVID-19. Anyone who completed their initial Pfizer and Moderna vaccine series at least six months ago or who received a Johnson & Johnson vaccine at least two months ago is eligible for a booster.
Getting Tested: Students and employees can continue to get tested at no cost via drive-up or appointment at Garage A through Aventus Biolabs. The site is open from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Mondays through Saturdays but will be closed on Christmas Day. Testing is recommended if you have symptoms of COVID-19 or you are within three to five days of exposure to the virus.
Testing Positive: The UCF COVID Line will remain operational during UCF’s holiday closure and in the spring. Any student or faculty or staff member who tests positive for COVID-19 must call the UCF COVID Line, 407-823-2509, and follow nurses’ instructions. Clearance forms will be required prior to returning to class or work on campus.
Sick? Stay Home: You should not go to class, work or other activities if you believe you are experiencing symptoms of the flu or COVID-19. Get tested if you believe it may be COVID-19, and call the COVID Line if you test positive.
Get Your Flu Shot: Annual flu vaccinations are even more important while COVID-19 is still present. Flu shots are available for free for all UCF students, thanks to the Student Health Fee, via walk up or during other appointments at Student Health Services. Flu shots also are available at Student Health Services and UCF Health for faculty and staff, with the costs potentially covered through insurance.
UCF will continue to monitor COVID-19 through the holiday break and into the new year. I encourage you to continue to follow the latest CDC guidance to protect yourself and keep the spread of COVID-19 in our community low.
Have a healthy, enjoyable holiday season.
Dr. Michael Deichen, MD, MPH
Associate Vice President of UCF Student Health Services