CalArts Returns Newsletter, Dec. 1, 2021
Omicron Arrives in California; Next Steps at CalArts
Today, Dec. 1, the new Omicron COVID variant has been detected in California. There are important steps we can all take to protect ourselves both from COVID-19 and from emerging variants. The most important strategy for CalArtians remains making sure that everyone gets fully vaccinated or receives their booster dose as quickly as possible to reduce transmission of the virus. CalArts’ vaccination rate is currently 99 percent.
Los Angeles County Public Health continues to remind residents to wear a mask when indoors or at large outdoor mega events regardless of vaccination status. They also strongly recommend that individuals wear a mask when at any crowded indoor or outdoor events.
More information is available from the Los Angeles Department of Public Health.
Stay Well! Compliance and Safety On-Campus
We continue to urge all CalArtians to wear masks, wash hands, physically distance themselves, take COVID tests as recommended, use the LiveSafe app, and to follow campus protocols for gatherings and performances. Together, we have been very successful in keeping our community well. Let’s finish the semester strong and healthy.
Testing Available Three Times a Week
Testing is available Tuesdays and Thursdays from 11:30 am to 1:30 pm, and Wednesdays from 11 am to 2 pm at E-Block second floor near F200 and the main staircase. Please register for a COVID test in advance. Please note, you only need to enter your information one time, as it will be stored for subsequent test dates. If you do not register in advance, you are required to bring your insurance information with you to receive a test.
For all those required to test for performance or other reasons, even if you are not in class or on campus any given week, you are still responsible for getting tested that week (Sunday to Saturday), especially due to the exposure-to-infection time span of three to five days.
Students involved in performances may also visit the student health center for self-tests on Fridays between 8 am and 4 pm in order to meet the requirements for in-person performances in LA County.