Good morning campus community,

This is a friendly SU COVID office reminder to keep wearing your masks and get vaccinated if you have not. These measures are our best line of defense against exposure and spread of the COVID-19 virus.

VACCINATION STATUS 

All students who are fully vaccinated (2 weeks past second dose) please submit proof of vaccination. Submit proof of vaccination directly to the Etter Health Center or [apply.ship.edu/register/covid19-vaccine]online .

COVID-19 vaccines are safe and effective

COVID0-19 vaccines allow for return to some pre-pandemic activities

COVID-19 vaccination is a safe way to help protect against serious illness from COVID-19

COVID-19 vaccination is an important tool to help stop the pandemic (along with other mitigation protocols)

COVID-19 vaccination will reduce your chances of getting COVID-19

None of the COVID-19 vaccines will give you COVID-19

Numbers of positive COVID tests are rising, especially in the 18-29 age group. By getting vaccinated, you help our community minimize the number of positive cases and maintain the comprehensive in-person college experience!

NOTIFICATION OF COVID-19 POSITIVE TEST 

If you have tested positive off-campus, please still contact the COVID Office immediately at 717-477-1007 or covid19@ship.edu.

If you have been identified as a CLOSE CONTACT, meaning that you were within six feet of a COVID-positive individual for more than 15 minutes, please contact our office at 717-477-1007 or  covid19@ship.edu.

If you are not sure if you were a CLOSE CONTACT or you have COVID questions regarding Ship policies and procedures, please contact our office at 717-477-1007 or covid19@ship.edu.

MENTAL HEALTH   

COVID-19 can affect us physically but can also cause distress. The mental strain is not just there for those who test positive or who are identified as a Close Contact. It is important that we recognize the strains on all members of our community members. Reach out to colleagues and friends to support each other. Here is some helpful advice on Mental Health from the CDC:

The COVID-19 pandemic has had a major effect on our lives. Many of us are facing challenges that can be stressful, overwhelming, and cause strong emotions in adults and children. Public health actions, such as social distancing, are necessary to reduce the spread of COVID-19, but they can make us feel isolated and lonely and can increase stress and anxiety. Learning to cope with stress in a healthy way will make you, the people you care about, and those around you become more resilient. 

Stress can cause the following: 

  • Feelings of fear, anger, sadness, worry, numbness, or frustration 
  • Changes in appetite, energy, desires, and interests 
  • Difficulty concentrating and making decisions 
  • Difficulty sleeping or nightmares 
  • Physical reactions, such as headaches, body pains, stomach problems, and skin rashes 
  • Worsening of chronic health problems 
  • Worsening of mental health conditions 
  • Increased use of tobacco, alcohol, and other substances 

    It is natural to feel stress, anxiety, grief, and worry during the COVID-19 pandemic. Below are ways that you can help yourself, others, and your community manage stress. 

    Healthy Ways to Cope with Stress 

  • Take breaks from watching, reading, or listening to news stories, including those on social media. It’s good to be informed, but hearing about the pandemic constantly can be upsetting. Consider limiting news to just a couple times a day and disconnecting from phone, tv, and computer screens for a while. 
  • Take care of your body 
  • Make time to unwind — Try to do some other activities you enjoy 
  • Connect with others — Talk with people you trust about your concerns and how you are feeling 
  • Connect with your community- or faith-based organizations — While social distancing measures are in place, try connecting online, through social media, or by phone or mail 

Here are some of the resources on campus that may be helpful:

Check out the Shippensburg University – Counseling Center website

  • Schedule an appointment
  • Access to a 24 hour on call crises counselor by calling University Police at 717-477-1444
  • Managing Concerns and Emotions About COVID-19 Tips
  • Deep Breathing as a coping skill video
  • Recognizing Distress- a self-check list

Campus Resources 

United Campus Ministry                717-477-1672

Catholic Campus Ministry             717-477-1244

Dean of Students Office               717- 477-1164

Etter Health Center                         717-477-1458

Learning Assistance Center         717- 477-1420

Multicultural Student Affairs      717- 477-1616

University Police                              717-477-1444

Women’s Center                              717-477-1790

Thank you for your continued efforts,

SU COVID staff