Dear 7C Students,
While we have remained hopeful that COVID-19 would continue to recede, unfortunately as you are likely aware, we are in the midst of another surge with the rapid spread of COVID-19 due primarily to the Omicron variant. The Omicron variant of COVID-19 is highly transmissible, and we expect to see cases and transmission on campus. Thankfully though, most cases due to the Omicron variant are milder, especially in those who are fully vaccinated or up to date with their booster. Boosters are effective and should help in limiting the spread, as will the use of upgraded masking (surgical masks or respirators such as N95/KN95/KF94).
We encourage you to be aware and follow your campus’ guidelines for returning. These community messages with important details are linked here:
Student Health Services (SHS) is committed to supporting students for a safe, healthy and mentally fulfilling in-person experience. As we continue to respond to the evolving nature of our pandemic, medical resources continue to be strained. This semester, students will notice differences in SHS as well as contact tracing operations.
SHS visits will be by appointment only, no walk-ins. Same-day appointment requests will be accommodated as best as possible. However, in the event we cannot fit you in, you will be directed to our telehealth partner, 7C.Health. 7C.Health provides 24/7 on demand access (no appointment needed) to medical services for all students living domestically as well as mental health counseling to domestic and internationally based students. Our contract with 7C.Health allows students to make scheduled telehealth appointments ahead of time for both medical visits as well as counseling visits. While this is a great option for students to have a timely consultation if they can’t get an appointment at SHS, I want to remind students that they can utilize 7C.Health any time, if they prefer, not just when they can’t be seen at SHS.
We expect the start of the semester to be a bit unpredictable but remain hopeful that the second half of the semester will be better as we emerge from the current surge. Again, you can do your part by being aware of and following your campus’ guidelines for a safe return to Claremont. In this challenging environment, SHS appreciates your patience and understanding as we work in earnest to provide the highest quality service possible for our community.
Regards,
Prateek Jindal, DO
Director, Student Health Services