Holiday break at Howard University will last a bit longer than expected. On Monday, the university announced that it would delay the start of its spring semester until January 18 due to a rise in the number of COVID-19 cases across the country.
“We are continuing to monitor the surge in COVID-19 cases locally and throughout the region. The significant increase in cases is, in part, due to the spread of the omicron variant, which is more easily transmissible than the delta variant,” Howard University Chief Academic Officer Anthony K. Wutoh stated.
When students return, they will be required to provide a negative PCR test within four days of arrival. In addition, the university has mandated that all students and staff members receive a COVID-19 vaccine booster shot by the end of January. Exemptions will only be granted to those with medical and religious concerns.
“Breakthrough cases of COVID-19 will continue to occur. We know that individuals who have received a booster shot of mRNA vaccines (Pfizer and Moderna) have significantly more antibodies in their system than individuals who have not yet received booster shots and even more than those who are unvaccinated,” Wutoh added.
“These increased antibody levels result in greater effectiveness of the vaccines, reducing severe illness or hospitalization. The bottom line is that you are more protected if you are vaccinated.”