Dear Northeastern University Community,
As we near the end of the Fall 2021 term, the university is remaining vigilant in monitoring the spread of COVID-19 variants, including Omicron. University leaders have been working closely with members of our faculty, including some of the world’s leading scientists who are experts in network science and the spread of infectious diseases. Their scientific insights—alongside the latest public health guidelines—continue to inform the university’s decisions.
In the past week, we have seen an increase in the number of cases on the Boston campus, primarily in the student population, including some cases of the Omicron variant. Early research suggests that the Omicron variant is more transmissible than previous variants of the virus, but leads to less severe outcomes for infected individuals—especially those who are vaccinated.
We want to urge every member of the university community to continue following university protocols, and to take all reasonable steps to protect themselves and the community around them.
The university will conclude final exams today and will remain fully operational on all of our U.S. and Canadian campuses. However, we are recommending that non-essential gatherings and events be postponed or moved outdoors if possible. While athletic events will proceed as scheduled, beginning this Sunday, December 19, they will do so without spectators in the stands.
We would like to remind all members of our community that vaccination remains the most effective way to combat this disease. We recently announced that all U.S.-based students, faculty and staff must get a booster shot by no later than January 18th, 2022, or seven days after becoming eligible. We will share more information about submitting proof of booster vaccination in the coming days.
If you have questions, please contact NUCOVID19Qs@northeastern.edu. As always, we will continue to monitor the situation, consult with our faculty experts, and provide regular updates.
Sincerely,
Kenneth W. Henderson Chancellor and Senior Vice President for Learning