ObieSafe Weekly: August 11, 2020
August 11, 2020 12:30 PM
Office of Communications
President Ambar gives update on campus health strategy; understanding the differences in diagnostic tests
COVID-19 Strategy Update
Over the weekend, we learned from our testing partner that the demand for testing from hot spots across the South and in other parts of the country will adversely affect our testing schedule here in Oberlin.
Read President Ambar's statement and watch the video
Understanding Diagnostic Tests
Ohio Gov. Mike DeWine recently tested negative for COVID-19 one day after he had tested positive during a required screening to meet the president.
Read about the differences between diagnostic tests
Data and results
As our testing program and layered approach moves forward, look for this space to provide data and health metrics that provide insights into the campus' status. The college has received the first round of test results, and all 21 people who received their results tested negative!
Oberlin city leaders support the college’s efforts to safeguard the community
The City of Oberlin is dedicated to partnering with the college and Lorain County Public Health to put forth best practices.
Checking in at Williams Field House: Finding your way
All students, faculty, and staff are expected to arrive at Williams Field House for their designated COVID-19 test appointment. The Field House is located at 200 Woodland Street, behind the Shanks Health and Wellness Center.
Flu Shot FAQs
Is the flu vaccine already available for the upcoming season and, if so, do you recommend that students try to get one before returning to campus? Check out the Health: Flu Shots section of the FAQ's page of the ObieSafe website.
Sage Aronson ’12 develops nasal swab to screen for COVID-19
A partnership led by Sage Aronson, a 2012 graduate, is making 3D-printed nasal swabs to screen for COVID-19 in the San Diego area.
Three questions: What will COVID-19 testing cost students?
How much is the COVID testing fee?
The $530 fee covers the costs of students’ monthly tests and the administration of the program.
Is the $530 fee per semester, or for the whole year?
The fee helps cover the program's costs for testing and administration per semester. Students who attend two semesters will be charged the fee each semester.
Is the fee covered by the health plan that the college offers?
Health insurance is not covering testing costs for people who are not demonstrating symptoms. The health plan the college offers is taking the same approach and is not covering testing costs.
Tip of the Week: Cleaning your office or dorm
If you don’t have everyday cleaning supplies, such as cleaning wipes or sprays, the Ohio Department of Health suggests other ways to disinfect your space.
Read about alternative cleaning methods
Questions we've been asked
Q. For students who need to fly, how will they get from the airport to Oberlin in a safe way? Any advice about flying in general?
A. Transportation to and from the airport will be provided as in the past, while following the new health guidelines. Always follow guidelines and recommendations from health authorities when flying.
Have more questions about how to travel to and from campus safely? Check out the “Travel to/from campus” section of the FAQs page on the ObieSafe website.
Get in touch with the ObieSafe team
Have something to share in a future issue of ObieSafe Weekly? Email obiesafe@oberlin.edu with story ideas or information you’d like to have considered for publication.
ObieSafe Weekly provides the news, information—and the occasional smile—we all need to navigate the pandemic and help our community thrive. Find the tools you need in your inbox at noon every Tuesday.