ObieSafe Weekly: March 9, 2021
March 9, 2021 2:00 PM
Office of Communications
Meet the testing center staff; vaccine documentation
| New Tests | 601 |
|---|---|
| New Positives | 0 |
| % Positive | 0.00% |
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The data reported here reflect Oberlin’s testing protocol only. Cumulative totals and information on testing procedures are available at the ObieSafe website.
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Transcription
Perfected Mask of the Smarter Future
A light blue, no-strap mask with a thinking emoji patch attached in the center.
- No straps. Edges seal precisely to face with a mysterious gentle suction, like the eye masks in “The Incredibles.”
- Detects your facial expressions and can broadcast them using emojis. (But only if you are OK with that.)
- Filters out harmful particles with 100% efficiency. Also, freshens breath!
- Can change color at your command, up to 12 times a day. Turns reflective after sundown.
- Fabric is self-cleaning, like an oven. Don’t worry about how.
- Inner compartment feeds you morsels of chocolate or other snacks if requested.
Note: Wearing today’s less-perfected masks while also maintaining six feet of distance is currently the best formula for staying on campus and getting to a future that doesn’t even need constant PPE.
Behind the mask: Meet the testing staff
Photo credit: Courtesy of Kayleen England
The nursing and professional staff in Oberlin’s COVID-19 testing center play a primary role in monitoring the health of the campus. This series offers a peek behind the mask of these frontline workers. Learn more about registered nurse Kayleen England.
How to feed a campus during a pandemic
Photo credit: Courtesy of Oberlin College
Since the fall reopening, Campus Dining Services has pivoted to a new operating procedure based on physical distancing, all take-out meals, and screening for green passes among all guests. Oberlin’s dining partner, AVI Fresh, was tasked with creating a new dining program in the midst of a pandemic. Fortunately, the AVI Fresh team—all with a strong sense of hospitality and a can-do mentality—made it work. Caleb Crandall, resident director for AVI Fresh, discusses the challenges and successes of dining operations during a pandemic.
Late test arrivals will be asked to reschedule
Please remember to arrive for your monthly COVID-19 test appointment on time. Anyone who arrives more than 15 minutes late will be asked to reschedule their test through OberView for a different day and time. The appointment schedule maintains a steady flow and minimizes wait time. It also decreases exposure to others and mitigates the spread of the virus. Walk-in appointments are not permitted this semester.
COVID-19 vaccine documentation
Vaccines are expected to become available for the campus community later this spring. A high vaccination rate ensures that campus life can return to near normal activity. We encourage everyone to receive a vaccine as soon as possible, so when the opportunity presents itself, please consider getting vaccinated.
In order to monitor the percent of campus that is vaccinated, we request that everyone submit documentation. Students may submit a copy of the “COVID-19 Vaccination Record Card,” received upon vaccination, to Student Health. Faculty and staff may present the document to Human Resources, and the process for submission will be announced by April 1, 2021.
While submission of vaccine documentation can help the college make decisions about increased in-person activities, remember that the COVID-19 Vaccination Record Card may also be required for personal activities, such as flying, avoiding quarantine at cities you visit, or entering various venues. Put your card somewhere safe so that you can access it in the future.
Full measure: Keep up the good work
Full Measure participation has never been better! Thank you to everyone who fills out their daily symptom survey. You are doing your part to keep our campus safe. Full Measure is an important part of our layered health strategy. Keep in mind that we must continue to be vigilant in our efforts even as we look forward to spring weather.
A guide to county Metroparks trails
Photo credit: Lorain County Metroparks
Spring is right around the corner, and daylight savings time begins on March 14. Looking for a change of scenery to enjoy the great outdoors? The Lorain County Metroparks are full of marked trails for walking, hiking, cycling, and rollerblading. Explore the local trails and reservations.
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 every Tuesday at noon.