COVID-19 Update

Dear members of the Emerson community:

As part of the College’s COVID-19 surveillance testing program, vendors who work in key service areas on Emerson’s campus are tested weekly, in addition to performing a symptom check prior to reporting for work. Unfortunately, we have received news that three such individuals have tested positive for COVID-19. In an effort to be as transparent with our community as possible, while also maintaining the confidentiality of our testing program, we are writing to share non-identifying information about the positive cases and the measures we are taking to safeguard the health and wellbeing of our community. 

The first individual, who is a member of vendor staff, was last on the Boston campus Friday, September 18, and worked solely at the Lion’s Den. The Lion’s Den was promptly disinfected and sanitized, closed over the weekend, and remains closed out of an abundance of caution and in accordance with guidance from city health officials. Contact tracing took place over the weekend and did not reveal additional positive cases.

Separately, this afternoon the College was notified that two other individuals, also vendor employees, tested positive on Monday. The first individual followed all safety protocols, including symptom checking (the individual was asymptomatic), wearing a face covering, and social distancing. The other positive case is an employee of the same vendor, but does not typically work on our campus. Contact tracing is underway. 

Out of an abundance of caution, the College will perform another deep clean of the entire Dining Center this afternoon. The Dining Center is closed for routine cleaning three times a day, in the morning, afternoon, and overnight as standard precautionary practice. In addition, this evening, access to the dining center will be restricted to the Boylston Place entrance only. 

Regular participation in the College’s surveillance testing program, and continuing to wear face coverings, wash hands, and social distance, remains critical to ensuring the wellbeing of our community — and we are grateful for your continued vigilance. We will continue to keep you informed of important updates and the impact of COVID-19 on our community.

Sincerely,
Erik Muurisepp
COVID-19 Lead
AVP, Campus Life