Community Notifications

Dear MCPHS Community:

As a result of the high transmissibility of the current COVID-19 variant as well as rising positivity rates on campus, MCPHS is temporarily requiring all students, faculty, and staff to wear well-fitting surgical, KF94, KN95, or N95 masks beginning on Friday, May 20, 2022. Masks will be required in all indoor campus locations unless eating or drinking, or in a private office. Mask requirements in labs, clinics, testing centers, etc. have not changed.

We understand that wearing a mask may be inconvenient for some, but for academic continuity and success of our students during the short summer semester, as well as for the health and safety of our entire Community, temporarily requiring masks is the best way to reduce the spread of COVID-19.

As we have throughout the pandemic, we will continuously monitor the levels of COVID-19 cases and keep the Community up to date on guidance for wearing masks. We will monitor this recent COVID surge closely, with hopes to remove this temporary requirement once the surge has subsided.

Masks will be provided at the entrances to all campus locations for those Community members who need them.

Thank you for your commitment to keeping MCPHS safe. For questions on our temporary mask requirement, please email COVID19team@mcphs.edu or call 617.732.2798.

Stay healthy,
MCPHS COVID-19 Team

Dear MCPHS Community

The Boston Public Health Commission (BPHC) issued new guidance on April 21, 2022, that renewed its recommendation that masks be worn indoors to protect individuals and prevent further COVID-19 case increases. The new guidance was updated because of the increase cases and the increased presence of COVID-19 particles in local wastewater samples.

Consistent with BPHC guidance, we are recommending that all students, faculty, and staff on the Boston campus wear a well-fitting KF94, KN95, or N95 mask while indoors on campus, continue to monitor for symptoms, and test. These extra precautions while indoors and in crowded areas will protect yourself and others in the community. 

Our procedures on campus continue to be based on science and the most up-to-date guidance from public health officials. Our first priority is, and will always be, the health and safety of our students, faculty, staff, and other Community members. We will closely monitor changes in the data and public health guidelines and further evaluate our COVID-19 protocols as needed.

Thank you for your commitment to keeping our Community safe. If you have any questions on our updated mask recommendation, please email COVID19team@mcphs.edu or call 617.732.2798.

Stay healthy,

MCPHS COVID-19 Team

Dear MCPHS Community,

We are pleased to report that due to your tremendous efforts, the campus positivity rate has remained extremely low. Given our promising data and the guidance of state and local public health officials—and consistent with other local higher education institutions in MA and NH, we will be further easing our campus COVID-19 protocols.

These updates include significant changes to the University’s requirements on masking. This information is also available on the COVID-19 website.

COVID-19 Protocol Updates:

Effective immediately, April 4^th, 2022:

• Masks will be optional in all areas, including instructional classroom settings, EXCEPT in laboratory settings, including clinical practicum assessment activities, the healthcare settings, libraries, and COVID-19 testing centers.
  • Masks (KF94, KN95, N95) are required in:
    • Laboratory settings including clinical practicum assessments
    • Healthcare facilities include Forsyth Dental Hygiene Clinic; Eye and Vision Center; NESA Acupuncture Treatment Center; Balance, Movement, and Wellness Center; and Counseling Services per federal and state mandates.
    • Libraries
    • Kennedy Building at MassArt- all common areas and dining hall
    • COVID-19 testing centers
  • Masks are optional but not required in:
    • Instructional classroom settings
    • Private offices
    • Meeting rooms
    • Shared workspaces, except in healthcare settings
    • Residential halls, unless isolating or completing isolation/quarantine
    • Dining halls where allowed- *The Kennedy Building at MassArt still has a mask requirement*
    • Common areas of buildings: atrium, restrooms, stairwells, elevators
• PCR testing is required once a week, no older than every 7 days for all individuals on campus. Regular testing is key to track the presence of COVID-19 within our community, to reduce the risk of transmission, and ensure the safety of those in our community.
• MCPHS belongs to the Colleges of the Fenway (COF) consortium and shares many campus spaces with other COF institutions. When utilizing these shared spaces, you are required to follow the COVID-19 protocols for each respective institution, regardless of the lifted mask mandates in MCPHS-only spaces.
• Following CDC guidelines, everyone who has tested positive for COVID-19 must stay home and isolate from other people for 5 full days regardless of vaccination status. If cleared from isolation on day 6, you must wear a mask (KN95, KF94 or N95) mask at all times while around others until the completion of 10 full days.
• Individuals exposed and who have not tested positive will be provided guidance by the COVID-19 Team based on vaccination and symptom status.
• Non-MCPHS visitors who are not fully vaccinated and boosted, if eligible, must wear a mask (KN95, KF94, or N95) while on campus.

We are a mask-friendly University. We encourage anyone who prefers to wear a mask at all times to continue doing so. Although we are moving toward a mask-free campus, there are many reasons people may choose or need to always wear a mask, including medical conditions that put them at higher risk.

Our procedures on campus continue to be based on science and the most up-to-date guidance from public health experts as well as CDC, state, and local health authorities. Our first priority is, and will always be, the health and safety of our students and other Community members. We will closely monitor changes in the data and public health guidelines and further evaluate our COVID-19 protocols as needed.

Thank you for your commitment to keeping our Community safe. For further questions on our updated policies, please email COVID19team@mcphs.edu or call 617.732.2798.

Stay healthy,
MCPHS COVID-19 Team

Dear MCPHS Community,

First and foremost, we want to recognize your extraordinary vigilance in following all COVID-19 protocols, including the additional testing measures put in place for your safe return from spring break. We are pleased to report that due to your tremendous efforts, the campus positivity rate has remained extremely low. Given our promising data and the guidance of state and local public health officials—and consistent with other local higher education institutions in MA and NH, we will be easing our campus COVID-19 protocols in two phases.

These updates include significant changes to the University’s requirements on masking, daily symptom reporting, and testing. This information is also available on the COVID-19 website.

COVID-19 PROTOCOL UPDATES:

Phase 1, effective immediately, March 23:

• Masks are no longer required in many spaces on campus EXCEPT in classrooms/laboratories and in all healthcare facilities including clinics/treatment centers.
  • Masks are required in:
  • All classroom settings
  • Laboratory settings
  • Libraries
  • Healthcare facilities including Forsyth Dental Hygiene Clinic; Eye and Vision Center; NESA Acupuncture Treatment Center; Balance, Movement, and Wellness Center; and Counseling Services per federal and state mandates.
  • Masks are optional but not required in:
  • Private offices
  • Meeting rooms
  • Shared workspaces, except in healthcare settings
  • Residential halls, unless isolating or completing isolation/quarantine
  • Dining halls
  • Common areas of buildings: atrium, restrooms, stairwells, elevators
• Well-fitted masks (KF94, KN95, N95) remain required in classrooms, laboratories, libraries, and healthcare clinics/treatment centers regardless of vaccination and booster status.
• Daily symptom reporting is no longer required. Please continue to self-monitor symptoms and stay home when not feeling well.
• PCR testing is required once a week, no older than every 7 days for all individuals on campus.
• If you have tested positive or been exposed to COVID-19, you must wear a mask in all spaces on campus until your completion of the 10-day period since the positive test result, as recommended by CDC guidelines.
• Non-MCPHS visitors who are not fully vaccinated and boosted, if eligible, must wear a mask while on campus.
• Food is allowed at in-person events on campus; space will be provided for physical distancing.

Phase 2 will begin on April 4:

• Masks will be optional in all areas, including instructional classroom settings, EXCEPT in laboratory settings, including clinical practicum assessment activities, libraries, and the healthcare settings as stated above.

We are a mask-friendly University. We encourage anyone who prefers to wear a mask at all times to continue doing so. Although we are moving toward a mask-free campus, there are many reasons people may choose or need to always wear a mask, including medical conditions that put them at higher risk.

Our procedures on campus continue to be based on science and the most up-to-date guidance from public health experts as well as CDC, state, and local health authorities. Our first priority is, and will always be, the health and safety of our students and other Community members. We will closely monitor changes in the data and public health guidelines and further evaluate our COVID-19 protocols as needed.

Thank you for your commitment to keeping our Community safe. For further questions on our updated policies, please email COVID19team@mcphs.edu or call 617.732.2798.

Stay healthy,
MCPHS COVID-19 Team

Dear MCPHS Community,

We’re looking forward to welcoming you back from spring break. To ensure everyone’s safe return, we want to remind you to maintain your required COVID-19 testing compliance before coming to campus.

In addition to your usual required testing cadence, all students, faculty, and staff returning to campus must test within four days of their first day back on campus.

MCPHS Testing Centers will be open throughout the spring break, including Saturday, March 12 and Sunday, March 13. Please refer to the COVID-19 Testing Schedule to see the hours of operation for the testing sites on each campus.

For further questions on testing, please email COVID19team@mcphs.edu or call 617.732.2798.

Stay healthy,
MCPHS COVID-19 Team

Dear MCPHS Community,

With spring break right around the corner, we want to remind you all to maintain your required COVID-19 testing compliance during the break. When classes resume the week of March 14, all students, faculty, and staff must be in testing compliance to return to campus. With many Community members traveling during the break, we will be requiring all students, faculty, and staff returning to campus to test within four days of their first day back on campus.

MCPHS Testing Centers will be open throughout the spring break, including Saturday, March 12 and Sunday, March 13. Please refer to the COVID-19 Testing Schedule to see the hours of operation for the testing sites on each campus.

For further questions on testing, please email COVID19team@mcphs.edu or call 617.732.2798.

We hope you all have a safe and enjoyable spring break.

Stay healthy,
MCPHS COVID-19 Team

Dear MCPHS Community,

With spring break approaching, we want to remind you all to maintain your required COVID-19 testing compliance during the break. When classes resume the week of March 14, all students, faculty, and staff must be in testing compliance to return to campus. With many Community members traveling during the break, we will be requiring all students, faculty, and staff returning to campus to test within four days of their first day back on campus.

MCPHS Testing Centers will be open throughout the spring break, including Saturday, March 12 and Sunday, March 13. Please refer to the COVID-19 Testing Schedule to see the hours of operation for the testing sites on each campus.

Please schedule your test at one of the MCPHS testing sites, using the CoVerified application. You may choose to get a PCR test at an outside facility, but please be aware that you will not be reimbursed, and you must upload your PCR test results to CoVerified. No rapid antigen tests will be accepted.

If positivity rates on campus remain low following the break, MPCHS will further evaluate the possibility of easing COVID-19 protocols during the week of March 21.

For further questions on testing, please email COVID19team@mcphs.edu or call 617.732.2798. We hope you all have a safe and enjoyable spring break.

Stay healthy,
MCPHS COVID-19 Team

Dear MCPHS Community, 

We are pleased to report that our communal efforts to mitigate the spread of COVID-19 during the Omicron surge have been widely successful. As our testing statistics show, the rate of COVID-19 cases across our campuses has continued dropping, with the current weekly data showing 0.479% positive results. Thanks to your steadfast vigilance, and the prompt compliance of all eligible individuals with the University’s vaccine booster mandate, we feel confident in safely modifying some of our COVID-19 protocols consistent with other institutions and guidance from public health experts as well as CDC, state, and local health authorities.  

The following COVID-19 protocol updates are being made: 

• Effective immediately, masks are optional on residence floors. Masks will remain required at residence entrances, elevators, and offices. Masks are also required at all times anywhere in the residence halls while around others until the completion of the 10-day period after a positive test result or a COVID-19 exposure. 
• Starting February 22, 2022, guests are permitted in the residence halls. External (non-MCPHS) guests must comply with the University’s COVID-19 policies, such as mask-wearing in common areas and providing proof of COVID-19 vaccination and booster. Further information on non-MCPHS guests will be forthcoming to residents from Student Affairs. 
• Dining, fitness centers, and lounge areas have expanded capacity. 

The following COVID-19 protocols will remain in place: 

• COVID-19 vaccine and vaccine booster requirements for those eligible. 
• Testing schedule. 
• Face masks (KF94, KN95, N95) in campus buildings including classrooms, study spaces, residence hall entrances, elevators, and lounges. 

We are extremely grateful to all students, faculty, and staff for doing their part to keep our Community healthy. The University’s safety measures have been effective—and these updates made possible—because of your extraordinary efforts. It is now time to reap some of the rewards of our low positivity rate. 

We encourage you to take advantage of these modified protocols, but also to maintain your vigilance so that we may continue to modify our protocols as we move forward with the spring semester. Pending our positivity rate, it is our intention to allow food at University-sponsored campus events following the spring break. All COVID-19 protocol updates are subject to change depending on the numbers, but with the falling trend, we feel hopeful that cases will continue to head in the right direction. 

If you have any questions about the COVID-19 protocol updates, please email COVID19team@mcphs.edu or call 617.732.2798. 

Stay healthy, 

MCPHS COVID-19 Team 

Dear MCPHS faculty, staff, and students,

We wanted to provide you an update regarding the University’s efforts at continuing to keep our Community healthy and safe during the COVID-19 pandemic. As you likely are aware, or have learned from the news, a number of cities, towns, and states across the country are relaxing their COVID-19 restrictions, including mask mandates. This is exciting news, and it means we are getting closer to what life was like prior to the pandemic.

As a health science university with campuses in three cities and across two states, we also have to be mindful of what each local jurisdiction requires. These requirements can vary from city to city and state to state.

For now, MCPHS will be continuing to follow current face mask protocols, which requires only KF94, KN95, or N95 masks be worn by all Community members.  The University will continue to monitor developments with mask requirements, and assess whether MCPHS can modify the mask requirement later in March post Spring Break. We will also be looking ahead to Commencement in May, but at this point, there have not been any decisions made on safety protocols for those events.

As always, the University’s primary goal is to maintain the health and safety of our community. As a result of our rigorous policies and practices, and the Community’s commitment and dedication to following them, we have successfully maintained a very low positivity rate throughout the pandemic. That is a credit to all of you. We also understand the impact COVID-19 requirements have had on the general public as well as our Community.

We will continue to monitor trends closely, and will communicate any potential changes as soon as possible. We are looking forward to the possibility of easing COVID-19 restrictions if positivity rates remain low, and other metrics on ICU capacity and hospitalizations per day stay below acceptable thresholds as defined by local governments.

Keep an eye out for updates on plans to stay in testing compliance through the Spring Break and prior to resuming classes on March 14. The University is planning to keep its testing centers open for longer hours on March 12 and March 13 to give faculty, staff, and students the opportunity to get back into testing compliance prior to their return to campus. There will be more to follow on that in the coming weeks.

Many thanks for your cooperation.

Sincerely,

Richard J. Lessard, President

Eligible students, faculty, and staff must provide verification that they have received a COVID-19 vaccine booster in order to access campus after Friday, February 4, 2022.

Please upload your COVID-19 vaccination card (updated with proof of your booster) to CoVerified.

COVID-19 Vaccine Booster Requirement

With the emergence of the Omicron variant and its high transmissibility, guidance from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and other Public Health Officials recommends the booster vaccination as a preventive measure. It is with this guidance that MCPHS will require all eligible students, faculty, and staff to receive a COVID-19 vaccine booster by Friday, February 4, 2022 (or as soon as your eligibility allows).

For more information, visit our COVID-19 Vaccine Booster webpage.

Good afternoon,

Massachusetts College of Pharmacy & Health Sciences, in collaboration with Shaw’s, will be hosting a COVID-19 Vaccine Booster Clinic for students, faculty, and staff on each campus. The dates, locations and links to secure an appointment are listed below:

• Wednesday, January 12 (10 a.m. – 4 p.m.) – Boston Campus, Fennell building, first floor, Cardinal Lounge. Sign up for Boston clinic here.
• Thursday, January 13 (10 a.m. – 4 p.m.) – Manchester campus, Brant Hub building, Room 105. Sign up for Manchester clinic here.
• Friday, January 14 (10 a.m. – 4 p.m.) – Worcester campus, 10 Lincoln Square building, Ballroom. Sign up for Worcester clinic here.

Please know that you may sign up for an appointment on the campus that is most convenient for you and that you must be compliant with Health and Safety Guidelines for Spring 2022 to come to campus.

You can request which vaccine you receive, and pharmacists will consult with you on vaccine choices.

HEALTH INSURANCE INFORMATION

Attendees are asked to bring their insurance ID card; there is no co-pay. In addition to MCPHS’s clinics, the state has announced the opening of booster clinics.

• Fenway Park (Boston): Opening January 6, this clinic will be able to administer up to 1,300 doses per day, including walk-ins. Cataldo Ambulance will provide the vaccine.
• Melnea Cass Recreation Complex (Roxbury): Opening January 5, this clinic will be able to administer up to 400 doses per day, including walk-ins. Fallon Ambulance will provide the vaccine.
• North Shore Community College (Lynn): Opening January 5, this clinic will be able to administer up to 400 doses per day, including walk-ins. Cataldo Ambulance will provide the vaccine.
• Taunton COVID-19 Vaccine Clinic (Taunton): Opening January 6, this clinic will be able to administer up to 400 doses per day. Brewster Ambulance will provide the vaccine.

We have required the vaccine booster for all Community members who are eligible*, by February 4, so please be sure to upload verification to CoVerified.

Thank you,
MCPHS COVID-19 Team

Eligibility: *6 months after the second dose of the Pfizer, Moderna, or a WHO-authorized vaccine, OR 2 months after the Johnson and Johnson vaccine.

Dear MCPHS Community:

We look forward to welcoming you back to campus for the official start of the spring 2022 semester next week. The health and safety of our Community continues to be our top priority and you should feel confident that our on-campus environment is as safe as, if not safer than, it has been since the University reopened for the fall 2020 semester.

MCPHS has put in place the following measures to ensure normal operations for the spring 2022 semester based on Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, city, state, and Department of Public Health information and guidance.

• The continuation of the COVID-19 protocols that have been highly successful over the last year and a half.
• The requirement of the COVID-19 vaccine and booster, which have proven to be remarkably effective at preventing severe illness and hospitalization even with the highly transmissible Omicron variant.
• The increased testing for some students, faculty, and staff, up to two times per week depending on COVID-19 vaccination status, to prevent positive cases from coming onto our campuses.
• The adoption of wearing only well-fitting surgical, KN95, KF94, or N95 masks on campus that provide a tighter seal and block more virus.

The University is dedicated to in-person classes because so many of our programs need hands-on learning for the best outcomes. Organic connections between students and with faculty also add to the richness of the face-to-face classes and experiential learning. And, being together after everything we all have been through these last two years is very important for students as well as faculty and staff from a mental health standpoint.

Please remember that all students, faculty, and staff who are not in testing compliance are required to have a negative COVID-19 pre-arrival PCR test with the swab sample taken not more than 72 hours prior to arrival on campus, as well as an arrival test administered on their first day on campus. We encourage you to use this week to schedule your pre-arrival test on one of our campuses if you can.

Thank you in advance for your cooperation with the new health and safety guidelines for the spring 2022 semester. We understand that there may be new inconveniences for some, but consistent participation by the entire Community will enable MCPHS to maintain in-person learning throughout the semester. With luck, Omicron infections will plateau as we have seen in other parts of the world and we will be able ease some of the new requirements during the course of the spring.

If you have any questions about the health and safety measures in place, please email

COVID19team@mcphs.edu or call 617.732.2798.

Stay healthy, 

MCPHS COVID-19 Team  

Dear MCPHS Community:

Over the past week, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has updated their guidance for individuals who are exposed to or test positive for COVID-19. Given the CDC’s changes as well as additional feedback from our own public health and scientific Community members, MCPHS is adjusting its COVID-19 testing frequency based on Community members’ vaccination status.

The following is the revised ongoing testing frequency for Community members beginning January 3, 2022:

• Fully COVID-19 vaccinated and boosted – test once per week (if you wish to test twice a week, you may)
• Fully COVID-19 vaccinated and not yet eligible for booster – test once per week
• Fully COVID-19 vaccinated and eligible, but not boosted – test twice per week

(Booster required by February 4, 2022, if eligible – upload your booster record to CoVerified)

• Unvaccinated with an approved exemption – continue to test twice per week

Please remember that all students, faculty, and staff who are not in testing compliance are required to have a negative pre-arrival test result from a test taken not more than 72 hours prior to arrival on campus, as well as an arrival test administered on their first day on campus.

With fluidity of the current COVID-19 situation, we appreciate your flexibility and cooperation with the changes in our COVID-19 testing frequency. MCPHS will continue to monitor CDC, city, state, and Department of Public Health information and guidance to inform our decisions, and will make additional changes to our COVID-19 protocols as circumstances dictate.

If you have any questions about COVID-19 testing, please email COVID19team@mcphs.edu or call 617.732.2798.

Stay healthy,
MCPHS COVID-19 Team

Dear MCPHS Community,

With the emergence of the Omicron variant and its high transmissibility, guidance from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and other Public Health Officials recommends the booster vaccination as a preventive measure. It is with this guidance that MCPHS will require all eligible students, faculty, and staff to receive a COVID-19 vaccine booster by Friday, February 4, 2022 (or as soon as your eligibility allows).  Therefore, we recommend strongly that you receive the COVID-19 vaccine booster over the semester break.

Who is eligible now?

• Completed primary vaccination series at least six months ago with the Pfizer or Moderna vaccine.
• Received J&J vaccine at least two months ago.
• Vaccinated outside of the US and completed primary vaccination series at least six months ago with a WHO authorized vaccine.

Which vaccine should I get?

• You may choose which COVID-19 vaccine you receive as a booster shot.
• CDC recommendations allow for mix-and-match dosing for booster shots (e.g., If your primary series was Pfizer, you may receive Moderna as the booster), although that is not required.

Where can I get a vaccine booster?

• For vaccine booster locations, visit: https://www.vaccines.gov/.
• We realize that it may be difficult for you to schedule a booster appointment over the semester break, so we are working with our pharmacy partners to schedule booster clinics on campus. More information will be forthcoming.
• For those who may not yet be eligible for a booster shot, MCPHS will be providing assistance with getting booster shots as Community members become eligible.

Do I need to verify my booster status?

• Yes. You will need to demonstrate that you have had the booster shot by Friday, February 4, 2022 (or as soon as your eligibility allows).
• Students must upload the required booster documentation to CastleBranch, as well as upload an image of their updated vaccine card to the CoVerified mobile application for verification and approval.
• Faculty and staff must upload an image of their updated vaccine card to the CoVerified mobile application for verification and approval.
• For instructions on how to upload your updated vaccination card to CoVerified, please visit the COVID-19 Vaccine Booster webpage.

Are Vaccine Booster Exemptions Available?

• Community members who have received a previous COVID-19 vaccination exemption for medical or religious reasons do not need to submit another exemption request.
• If a student is unable to receive a COVID-19 vaccine booster due to medical reasons, they may upload the Vaccine Exemption Form to CastleBranch with required medical documentation.
• If a faculty or staff is unable to receive a COVID-19 vaccine booster due to medical reasons, they must email HR@mcphs.edu to request an exemption for the booster requirement.

For more information on vaccine boosters, please visit: https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/vaccines/booster-shot.html.

If you have any questions or need further clarification about COVID-19 vaccine booster requirement, please email COVID19team@mcphs.edu or call our telephone hotline at (617) 732-2798.

Stay healthy,
MCPHS COVID-19 Team

Dear Incoming Student:

We are looking forward to welcoming you to MCPHS for the spring 2022 term! With less than a month to go, we wanted to remind you about what to expect when coming to campus.

In this email, you will find detailed information on MCPHS COVID-19 health and safety guidance, including:

• CoVerified (mobile device application)
• Pre-arrival testing
• Arrival & ongoing testing
• Vaccination requirement
• MCPHS COVID-19 resources

Our procedures on campus continue to be based on science and the most up-to-date guidance from public health experts as well as CDC, state, and local health authorities. Our first priority is, and will always be, the health and safety of our students and other Community members.

COVERIFIED (MOBILE DEVICE APPLICATION)

• The CoVerified mobile device application is what we use to schedule COVID-19 tests, upload outside test results, report symptoms, and check campus clearance status. If you haven’t done so already, please download CoVerified to your mobile device prior to arriving on campus. If you have difficulty downloading CoVerified, please contact the MCPHS Help Desk.

PRE-ARRIVAL TESTING INFORMATION

• All students must obtain a pre-arrival PCR COVID-19 test, upload their negative test result to CoVerified, and have their result approved by the MCPHS COVID-19 Team in order to come to campus, move into University housing, or attend classes.
• Students arriving on campus must have had their test swab sample taken not more than 72 hours prior to arrival on campus. For example, if you are scheduled to be on campus January 10, 2022, you must have proof of a negative test result conducted not earlier than January 7, 2022.
• Students who have not received their negative test result will have to quarantine in their residence hall or off-campus housing until they receive a negative test result. Therefore, in order to ensure that you have received a valid test result, it is highly recommended that you get your test taken three days prior to your arrival on campus.
• Students who have a negative test result that is more than 72 hours old will be tested on campus and will have to quarantine in their residence hall or off-campus housing until they receive a negative test result.
• Students who arrive on campus for classes without a negative pre-arrival test taken not more than 72 hours prior to arrival will not be permitted on campus.
• Individuals with symptoms consistent with a prospective COVID-19 diagnosis, regardless of a negative test, result will not be allowed on campus.
• Residential students may bring two guests, such as a family member or friend, to help them move in during their two-hour window. Guests must also obtain a COVID-19 test not more than 72 hours before move-in and must be prepared to provide proof of a negative test result.
• If you live within close proximity to one of MCPHS’s three campuses, you may schedule your pre-arrival test on that campus. Be aware that the test may take up to 48 hours to return results and the test swab sample must be taken not more than 72 hours prior to arrival on campus.
• The Boston campus testing site is located adjacent to the Fennell building on Palace Road.
• The Worcester campus testing sites are located behind 10 Lincoln Square at the corner of School Street and Major Taylor Blvd, and at 34 Mechanic Street.
• The Manchester campus testing site is located in the lower lot of the Manchester campus, off 49 Hollis Street.

Please refer to the Testing Schedule to download the Testing Center Hours of Operation for the latest testing days and times. Test time availability is on a first-come-first-served basis.

• Students may obtain their own COVID-19 pre-arrival test from an outside provider; however, the COVID-19 team will only accept results from a PCR test. No rapid antigen tests will be accepted. MCPHS will reimburse students for any out-of-pocket testing costs related to their pre-arrival test. Ongoing testing will not be reimbursed. Please contact COVID19team@mcphs.edu with details of your expenses.

• Any COVID-19 test laboratory report from an outside facility must be uploaded to CoVerified and include the following:
• The complete report in English
• Your full name clearly visible with another identifier such as a DOB
• The laboratory/facility address
• Collection date and time
• Type of test performed
• Results with a date and time

ARRIVAL & ONGOING TESTING INFORMATION

• Students will receive an arrival test when they get to campus.
• The arrival test does not replace the pre-arrival test requirement.
• Ongoing testing will also be conducted, as appropriate, up to twice per week to manage the safety of our Community. Please refer to the Testing Schedule to download the COVID-19 Testing Frequency Schedule for the latest testing requirements. Please note that unvaccinated students with an approved exemption will be required to test twice a week.
• Students are also required to report their symptoms on CoVerified before physically coming to campus the morning of each regularly scheduled day.

COVID-19 VACCINATION REQUIREMENT FOR SPRING 2022

• All students planning to be on campus for the spring 2022 semester are required to be fully immunized (considered 2 weeks after the last dose in the vaccine series) against the virus that causes COVID-19 and to provide record of their vaccination prior to arrival on campus.
• Student proof of vaccination is due December 1, 2021. If you have not done so already, upload the required documentation to CastleBranch as soon as possible for verification and approval. All students have received information on how to upload proof of vaccination to CastleBranch. Any questions about using CastleBranch should be directed to the company at customerservice@castlebranch.com or 888.723.4263. More information regarding the MCPHS Immunization Policy can be found here.
• In addition, we request that all students upload their vaccine card to CoVerified.
• If a student is unable to obtain one or more immunizations due to medical or religious reasons, they may upload the Vaccine Exemption Form to CastleBranch.
• COVID-19 health and safety guidelines remain in place notwithstanding COVID-19 vaccination status.
• All individuals will be required to continue wearing masks indoors and continue their respective COVID-19 testing compliance regardless of vaccination status.

COVID-19 HEALTH AND SAFETY GUIDELINES

It is critical to the health and safety of the entire MCPHS Community that each and every individual commits to:

• wearing a mask
• covering coughs and sneezes
• frequently washing hands
• avoiding large groups
• monitoring health daily
• staying home when you are not well

We appreciate your cooperation as we continue to make our campus safe as possible in the current climate.

If you have any questions about COVID-19 testing, please email COVID19team@mcphs.edu or call 617.732.2798.

Stay healthy,
MCPHS COVID-19 Team

Dear MCPHS Students:

In preparation of the upcoming winter break and the subsequent start of the spring 2022 term, we want to remind you all to maintain your required COVID-19 testing compliance during the break and prior to your return to campus in January.

We also strongly recommend that students who plan to travel home for winter break receive a negative COVID-19 test result within 72 hours of their planned departure to minimize the risk of spreading COVID-19 to family, friends, and particularly those at higher risk because of age or preexisting conditions.

REMAINING ON CAMPUS DURING SEMESTER BREAK

• Students remaining on campus throughout the break will be required to maintain their COVID-19 testing compliance. During the break, testing will be available on all three campuses with a modified schedule that can be accessed on the CoVerified mobile device application.

RETURNING FROM SEMESTER BREAK

• Download CoVerified
• Pre-arrival testing
• Arrival & ongoing testing
• Vaccination requirement
• Follow MCPHS COVID-19 guidelines

COVERIFIED (MOBILE DEVICE APPLICATION)

• The CoVerified mobile device application is what we use to schedule COVID-19 tests, upload outside test results, report symptoms, and check campus clearance status. If you haven’t done so already, please download CoVerified to your mobile device prior to arriving on campus. If you have difficulty downloading CoVerified, please contact the MCPHS Help Desk.

PRE-ARRIVAL TESTING INFORMATION

• All students must obtain a pre-arrival PCR COVID-19 test, upload their negative test result to CoVerified, and have their result approved by the MCPHS COVID-19 Team in order to come to campus, move into or return to University housing, or attend classes.
• Students arriving on campus must have had their test swab sample taken not more than 72 hours prior to arrival on campus. For example, if you are scheduled to be on campus January 10, 2022, you must have proof of a negative test result conducted not earlier than January 7, 2022.
• Students who have not received their negative test result will have to quarantine in their residence hall or off-campus housing until they receive a negative test result. Therefore, in order to ensure that you have received a valid test result, it is highly recommended that you get your test taken three days prior to your arrival on campus.
• Students who have a negative test result that is more than 72 hours old will be tested on campus and will have to quarantine in their residence hall or off-campus housing until they receive a negative test result.
• Students who arrive on campus for classes without a negative pre-arrival test taken not more than 72 hours prior to arrival will not be permitted on campus.
• Individuals with symptoms consistent with a prospective COVID-19 diagnosis, regardless of a negative test, result will not be allowed on campus.
• New residential students may bring two guests, such as a family member or friend, to help them move in during their two-hour window. Guests must also obtain a COVID-19 test not more than 72 hours before move-in and must be prepared to provide proof of a negative test result.
• If you live within close proximity to one of MCPHS’s three campuses, you may schedule your pre-arrival test on that campus. Be aware that the test may take up to 48 hours to return results and the test swab sample must be taken not more than 72 hours prior to arrival on campus.

• The Boston campus testing site is located adjacent to the Fennell building on Palace Road.
• The Worcester campus testing sites are located behind 10 Lincoln Square at the corner of School Street and Major Taylor Blvd, and at 34 Mechanic Street.
• The Manchester campus testing site is located in the lower lot of the Manchester campus, off 49 Hollis Street.

Please refer to the Testing Schedule to download the Testing Center Hours of Operation for the latest testing days and times. Test time availability is on a first-come-first-served basis.

• Students may obtain their own COVID-19 pre-arrival test from an outside provider; however, the COVID-19 team will only accept results from a PCR test. No rapid antigen tests will be accepted. MCPHS will reimburse students for any out-of-pocket testing costs related to their pre-arrival test. Ongoing testing will not be reimbursed. Please contact COVID19team@mcphs.edu with details of your expenses.

• Any COVID-19 test laboratory report from an outside facility must be uploaded to CoVerified and include the following:
• The complete report in English
• Your full name clearly visible with another identifier such as a DOB
• The laboratory/facility address
• Collection date and time
• Type of test performed
• Results with a date and time

ARRIVAL & ONGOING TESTING INFORMATION

• Students will receive an arrival test when they get to campus.
• The arrival test does not replace the pre-arrival test requirement.
• Ongoing testing will also be conducted, as appropriate, up to twice per week to manage the safety of our Community. Please refer to the Testing Schedule to download the COVID-19 Testing Frequency Schedule for the latest testing requirements. Please note that unvaccinated students with an approved exemption will be required to test twice a week.
• Students are also required to report their symptoms on CoVerified before physically coming to campus the morning of each regularly scheduled day.

COVID-19 VACCINATION REQUIREMENT FOR SPRING 2022

• All students planning to be on campus for the spring 2022 semester are required to be fully immunized (considered 2 weeks after the last dose in the vaccine series) against the virus that causes COVID-19 and to provide record of their vaccination prior to arrival on campus.
• Student proof of vaccination is due December 1, 2021. If you have not done so already, upload the required documentation to CastleBranch as soon as possible for verification and approval. All students have received information on how to upload proof of vaccination to CastleBranch. Any questions about using CastleBranch should be directed to the company at customerservice@castlebranch.com or 888.723.4263. More information regarding the MCPHS Immunization Policy can be found here.
• In addition, we request that all students upload their vaccine card to CoVerified.
• If a student is unable to obtain one or more immunizations due to medical or religious reasons, they may upload the Vaccine Exemption Form to CastleBranch.
• COVID-19 health and safety guidelines remain in place notwithstanding COVID-19 vaccination status.
• All individuals will be required to continue wearing masks indoors and continue their respective COVID-19 testing compliance regardless of vaccination status.

COVID-19 HEALTH AND SAFETY GUIDELINES

It is critical to the health and safety of the entire MCPHS Community that each and every individual commits to:

• wearing a mask
• covering coughs and sneezes
• frequently washing hands
• avoiding large groups
• monitoring health daily
• staying home when you are not well

We appreciate your cooperation as we continue to make our campus safe as possible in the current climate.

If you have any questions about COVID-19 testing, please email COVID19team@mcphs.edu or call 617.732.2798.

Stay healthy,
MCPHS COVID-19 Team

Dear MCPHS Faculty and Staff:

In preparation of the upcoming winter break and the subsequent start of the spring 2022 term, we want to remind you all to maintain your required COVID-19 testing compliance during the break and prior to your return to campus in January.

We also strongly recommend that those who plan to travel for winter break receive a negative COVID-19 test result within 72 hours of their planned departure to minimize the risk of spreading COVID-19 to family, friends, and particularly those at higher risk because of age or preexisting conditions.

RETURNING FROM SEMESTER BREAK

• Download CoVerified
• Pre-arrival testing
• Arrival & ongoing testing
• Vaccination requirement
• Follow MCPHS COVID-19 guidelines

COVERIFIED (MOBILE DEVICE APPLICATION)

•  The CoVerified mobile device application is what we use to schedule COVID-19 tests, upload outside test results, report symptoms, and check campus clearance status. If you haven’t done so already, please download CoVerified to your mobile device prior to arriving on campus. If you have difficulty downloading CoVerified, please contact the MCPHS Help Desk.

PRE-ARRIVAL TESTING INFORMATION

• If you are an employee who maintains your required testing cadence during the break, you do not need a pre-arrival test to come to campus.
• All employees who do not maintain their required testing cadence during the break must obtain a pre-arrival PCR COVID-19 test, upload their negative test result to CoVerified, and have their result approved by the MCPHS COVID-19 Team, in order for them to come to campus.
• Employees arriving on campus must have had their test swab sample taken not more than 72 hours prior to arrival on campus. For example, if you are scheduled to be on campus January 10, 2022, you must have proof of a negative test result conducted not earlier than January 7, 2022.
• Employees who arrive on campus without a negative pre-arrival test result will not be permitted on campus. Therefore, in order to ensure that you have received a valid test result, it is highly recommended that you get your test taken three days prior to your arrival on campus.
• Employees who have a negative test result that is more than 72 hours old will not be able to access any buildings on campus.
• Individuals with symptoms consistent with a prospective COVID 19 diagnosis, regardless of a negative test, result will not be allowed on campus.
• If you live within close proximity to one of MCPHS’s three campuses, you may schedule your pre-arrival test on that campus. Be aware that the test may take up to 48 hours to return results and the test swab sample must be taken not more than 72 hours prior to arrival on campus.
• The Boston campus testing site is located adjacent to the Fennell building on Palace Road.
• The Worcester campus testing sites are located behind 10 Lincoln Square at the corner of School Street and Major Taylor Blvd, and at 34 Mechanic Street.
• The Manchester campus testing site is located in the lower lot of the Manchester campus, off 49 Hollis Street.

Please refer to the Testing Schedule to download the Testing Center Hours of Operation for the latest testing days and times. Test time availability is on a first-come-first-served basis.

• Employees may obtain their own COVID-19 pre-arrival test from an outside provider; however, the COVID-19 team will only accept results from a PCR test. No rapid antigen tests will be accepted. MCPHS will reimburse employees for any out-of-pocket testing costs related to their pre-arrival test. Ongoing testing will not be reimbursed. Please contact COVID19team@mcphs.edu with details of your expenses.
• Any COVID-19 test laboratory report from an outside facility must be uploaded to CoVerified and include the following:
• The complete report in English
• Your full name clearly visible with another identifier such as a DOB
• The laboratory/facility address
• Collection date and time
• Type of test performed
• Results with a date and time

ARRIVAL & ONGOING TESTING INFORMATION

• After the initial pre-arrival test, ongoing testing will be conducted, as appropriate, up to twice per week to manage the safety of our Community. Please download the COVID-19 Testing Frequency Schedule for the latest testing requirements. Please note that unvaccinated employees with an approved exemption will be required to test twice a week.
• Employees are also required to report their symptoms on CoVerified before physically coming to campus the morning of each regularly scheduled day.

COVID-19 VACCINATION REQUIREMENT FOR SPRING 2022

• All employees planning to be on campus for the spring 2022 semester are required to be fully immunized (considered 2 weeks after the last dose in the vaccine series) against the virus that causes COVID-19 and to provide record of their vaccination prior to arrival on campus.
• Proof of vaccination is due December 1, 2021. If you have not done so already, upload the required documentation to CoVerified for verification and approval.
• If a faculty or staff member is unable to obtain one or more immunizations due to medical or religious reasons, they may upload the Employee COVID-19 Vaccine Exemption Request to CoVerified for verification and approval.
• COVID-19 health and safety guidelines remain in place notwithstanding COVID-19 vaccination status.
• All individuals will be required to continue wearing masks indoors and continue their respective COVID-19 testing compliance regardless of vaccination status.

COVID-19 HEALTH AND SAFETY GUIDELINES 

It is critical to the health and safety of the entire MCPHS Community that each and every individual commits to: 

• wearing a mask  
• covering coughs and sneezes 
• frequently washing hands 
• avoiding large groups 
• monitoring health daily 
• staying home when you are not well  

We appreciate your cooperation as we continue to make our campus safe as possible in the current climate.

If you have any questions about COVID-19 testing, please email COVID19team@mcphs.edu or call 617.732.2798.

Stay healthy,
MCPHS COVID-19 Team  

Dear MCPHS Community:

As we head into the semester break, we are seeing a number of breakthrough cases in those fully immunized due to waning immunity. This coupled with the emerging Omicron variant leads us to recommend strongly that all students, faculty, and staff take the opportunity over the break to get the COVID-19 vaccine booster if you are eligible.

Who is eligible now?

• 16 years of age or more and completed their primary vaccination series at least six months ago for the Pfizer vaccine.
• 18 years of age or more and completed their primary vaccination series at least six months ago for the Moderna vaccine.
• 18 years of age or more and received their J&J vaccine at least two months ago.

Which vaccine should I get?

• You may choose which COVID-19 vaccine you receive as a booster shot.
• CDC recommendations allow for mix and match dosing for booster shots (e.g., If your primary series was Pfizer, you may receive Moderna as the booster), although that is not required.

We realize that it may be difficult for you to schedule a booster appointment near you, or that you may not yet be eligible for a booster shot, so we are arranging to hold COVID-19 vaccine booster clinics on our campuses in January and February.

For instructions on how to upload your updated vaccination card to CoVerified, please visit the COVID-19 vaccination webpage.

For more information on vaccine boosters, visit: https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/vaccines/booster-shot.html.

For vaccine booster locations, visit https://www.vaccines.gov/.

Depending on the level of COVID-19 infections in our surrounding area as we approach the start of the spring semester, MCPHS may require the booster for all students, faculty, and staff, so we encourage you to make every effort to receive a booster shot over the semester break.

Stay healthy,
MCPHS COVID-19 Team

Dear MCPHS Students: 

We wanted to update you on what to expect when coming to campus for the spring 2022 term. In this email, you will find guidance on your return from winter break regarding pre-arrival and arrival testing requirements, as well as MCPHS’s continued COVID-19 health and safety guidelines and ongoing testing requirements.

Our procedures on campus continue to be based on science and the most up-to-date guidance from public health experts as well as CDC, state, and local health authorities. Our first priority is, and will always be, the health and safety of our students and other Community members.

PRE-ARRIVAL TESTING INFORMATION

• All students must obtain a pre-arrival PCR COVID-19 test, upload their negative test result to the CoVerified mobile application, and have their result approved by the MCPHS COVID-19 Team, in order for students to come to campus, move into or return to University housing, or attend classes. The CoVerified app is what we use to schedule COVID-19 tests, upload outside test results, report symptoms, and check campus clearance status. If you haven’t done so already, please download the CoVerified app prior to arriving on campus. If you have difficulty downloading the CoVerified app, please contact the MCPHS Help Desk.
• Students arriving on campus must have had their test swab sample taken not more than 72 hours prior to arrival on campus. For example, if you are scheduled to be on campus January 10, 2022, you must have proof of a negative test result conducted not earlier than January 7, 2022.
• Students who have not received their negative test result will have to quarantine in their residence hall or off-campus housing until they receive a negative test result. Therefore, in order to ensure that you have received a valid test result, it is highly recommended that you get your test taken three days prior to your arrival on campus.
• Students who have a negative test result that is more than 72 hours old will be tested on campus and will have to quarantine in their residence hall or off-campus housing until they receive a negative test result.
• Students who arrive on campus for classes without a negative pre-arrival test taken not more than 72 hours prior to arrival will not be permitted on campus.
• Individuals with symptoms consistent with a prospective COVID 19 diagnosis, regardless of a negative test, result will not be allowed on campus.
• If you live within close proximity to one of MCPHS’s three campuses, you may schedule your pre-arrival test on that campus. Be aware that the test may take up to 48 hours to return results and the test swab sample must be taken not more than 72 hours prior to arrival on campus.
• The Boston campus testing site is located adjacent to the Fennell building on Palace Road.
• The Worcester campus testing sites are located behind 10 Lincoln Square at the corner of School Street and Major Taylor Blvd, and at 34 Mechanic Street.
• The Manchester campus testing site is located in the lower lot of the Manchester campus, off 49 Hollis Street.

Please refer to the Testing Schedule to download the Testing Center Hours of Operation for the latest testing days and times. Test time availability is on a first-come-first-served basis.

As mentioned above, the CoVerified app is what we use to schedule COVID-19 tests, upload outside test results, report symptoms, and check campus clearance status.

• Students may obtain their own COVID-19 pre-arrival test from an outside provider; however, the COVID-19 team will only accept results from a PCR test. No rapid antigen tests will be accepted. MCPHS will reimburse students for any out-of-pocket testing costs related to their pre-arrival test. Ongoing testing will not be reimbursed. Please contact COVID19team@mcphs.edu with details of your expenses.
• Any COVID-19 test laboratory report from an outside facility must be uploaded to the CoVerified mobile application and include the following:
• The complete report in English
• Your full name clearly visible with another identifier such as a DOB
• The laboratory/facility address
• Collection date and time
• Type of test performed
• Results with a date and time

ARRIVAL INFORMATION

• Students will receive an arrival test when they get to campus.
• The arrival test does not replace the pre-arrival test requirement.
• Ongoing testing will also be conducted, as appropriate, up to twice per week to manage the safety of our Community. Please download the COVID-19 Testing Frequency Schedule for the latest testing requirements. Please note that unvaccinated students with an approved exemption will be required to test twice a week.
• Students are also required to report their symptoms on the CoVerified app before physically coming to campus the morning of each regularly scheduled day.

COVID-19 Vaccination Requirement for Spring 2022

• All students planning to be on campus for the spring 2022 semester are required to be fully immunized (considered 2 weeks after the last dose in the vaccine series) against the virus that causes COVID-19 and to provide record of their vaccination prior to arrival on campus.
• Student proof of vaccination is due December 1, 2021. If you have not done so already, upload the required documentation to CastleBranch as soon as possible for verification and approval. All students have received information on how to upload proof of vaccination to CastleBranch. Any questions about using CastleBranch should be directed to the company at customerservice@castlebranch.com or 888.723.4263. More information regarding the MCPHS Immunization Policy can be found here.
• In addition, we request that all students upload their vaccine card to the CoVerified app.
• If a student is unable to obtain one or more immunizations due to medical or religious reasons, they may upload the Vaccine Exemption Form to CastleBranch.

COVID-19 HEALTH AND SAFETY GUIDELINES

It is critical to the health and safety of the entire MCPHS Community that each and every individual commits to:

• wearing a mask 
• covering coughs and sneezes
• frequently washing hands
• avoiding large groups
• monitoring health daily
• staying home when you are not well

POST-VACCINE PROTOCOLS

• COVID-19 health and safety guidelines remain in place notwithstanding COVID-19 vaccination status.
• All individuals will be required to continue wearing masks indoors and continue their respective COVID-19 testing compliance regardless of vaccination status.

We appreciate your cooperation as we continue to make our way through the pandemic.

If you have any questions about COVID-19 testing, please email COVID19team@mcphs.edu or call 617.732.2798.

Stay healthy,

MCPHS COVID-19 Team

Dear MCPHS Faculty and Staff:

We wanted to update you on what to expect when coming to campus for the spring 2022 term. In this email, you will find guidance on your return from winter break regarding pre-arrival and arrival testing requirements, as well as MCPHS’s continued COVID-19 health and safety guidelines and ongoing testing requirements.

Our procedures on campus continue to be based on science and the most up-to-date guidance from public health experts as well as CDC, state, and local health authorities. Our first priority is, and will always be, the health and safety of our students and other Community members.

PRE-ARRIVAL TESTING INFORMATION

• If you are an employee who maintains your required testing cadence during the break, you do not need a pre-arrival test to come to campus.
• All employees who do not maintain their required testing cadence during the break must obtain a pre-arrival PCR COVID-19 test, upload their negative test result to the CoVerified mobile application, and have their result approved by the MCPHS COVID-19 Team, in order for them to come to campus. The CoVerified app is what we use to schedule COVID-19 tests, upload outside test results, report symptoms, and check campus clearance status. If you haven’t done so already, please download the CoVerified app prior to arriving on campus. If you have difficulty downloading the CoVerified app, please contact the MCPHS Help Desk.
• Employees arriving on campus must have had their test swab sample taken not more than 72 hours prior to arrival on campus. For example, if you are scheduled to be on campus January 10, 2022, you must have proof of a negative test result conducted not earlier than January 7, 2022.
• Employees who arrive on campus without a negative pre-arrival test result will not be permitted on campus. Therefore, in order to ensure that you have received a valid test result, it is highly recommended that you get your test taken three days prior to your arrival on campus.
• Employees who have a negative test result that is more than 72 hours old will not be able to access any buildings on campus.
• Individuals with symptoms consistent with a prospective COVID 19 diagnosis, regardless of a negative test, result will not be allowed on campus.
• If you live within close proximity to one of MCPHS’s three campuses, you may schedule your pre-arrival test on that campus. Be aware that the test may take up to 48 hours to return results and the test swab sample must be taken not more than 72 hours prior to arrival on campus.
• The Boston campus testing site is located adjacent to the Fennell building on Palace Road.
• The Worcester campus testing sites are located behind 10 Lincoln Square at the corner of School Street and Major Taylor Blvd, and at 34 Mechanic Street.
• The Manchester campus testing site is located in the lower lot of the Manchester campus, off 49 Hollis Street.

Please refer to the Testing Schedule to download the Testing Center Hours of Operation for the latest testing days and times. Test time availability is on a first-come-first-served basis.

As mentioned above, the CoVerified app is what we use to schedule COVID-19 tests, upload outside test results, report symptoms, and check campus clearance status.

• Employees may obtain their own COVID-19 pre-arrival test from an outside provider; however, the COVID-19 team will only accept results from a PCR test. No rapid antigen tests will be accepted. MCPHS will reimburse employees for any out-of-pocket testing costs related to their pre-arrival test. Ongoing testing will not be reimbursed. Please contact COVID19team@mcphs.edu with details of your expenses.
• Any COVID-19 test laboratory report from an outside facility must be uploaded to the CoVerified mobile application and include the following:
• The complete report in English
• Your full name clearly visible with another identifier such as a DOB
• The laboratory/facility address
• Collection date and time
• Type of test performed
• Results with a date and time

ARRIVAL INFORMATION

• After the initial pre-arrival test, ongoing testing will be conducted, as appropriate, up to twice per week to manage the safety of our Community. Please download the COVID-19 Testing Frequency Schedule for the latest testing requirements. Please note that unvaccinated employees with an approved exemption will be required to test twice a week.

• Employees are also required to report their symptoms on the CoVerified app before physically coming to campus the morning of each regularly scheduled day.

COVID-19 Vaccination Requirement for Spring 2022

• All employees planning to be on campus for the spring 2022 semester are required to be fully immunized (considered 2 weeks after the last dose in the vaccine series) against the virus that causes COVID-19 and to provide record of their vaccination prior to arrival on campus.
• Proof of vaccination is due December 1, 2021. If you have not done so already, upload the required documentation to the CoVerified app for verification and approval.
• If a faculty or staff member is unable to obtain one or more immunizations due to medical or religious reasons, they may upload the Vaccine Exemption Form to the CoVerified app for verification and approval.

COVID-19 HEALTH AND SAFETY GUIDELINES

It is critical to the health and safety of the entire MCPHS Community that each and every individual commits to:

• wearing a mask
• covering coughs and sneezes
• frequently washing hands
• avoiding large groups
• monitoring health daily
• staying home when you are not well

POST-VACCINE PROTOCOLS

• COVID-19 health and safety guidelines remain in place notwithstanding COVID-19 vaccination status.
• All individuals will be required to continue wearing masks indoors and continue their respective COVID-19 testing compliance regardless of vaccination status.

We appreciate your cooperation as we continue to make our way through the pandemic.

If you have any questions about COVID-19 testing, please email COVID19team@mcphs.edu or call 617.732.2798.

Stay healthy,

MCPHS COVID-19 Team

Dear MCPHS Community:

As we are seeing a number of breakthrough cases in those fully immunized due to waning immunity, the CDC has released guidance that all students, faculty, and staff 18+ in an educational setting are eligible for a COVID-19 Vaccine Booster.

• 18 years of age or more and completed their primary vaccination series at least six months ago for the Moderna or Pfizer vaccine
• 18 years of age or more and received their J&J vaccine at least two months ago

Which vaccine should I get?

• You may choose which COVID-19 vaccine you receive as a booster shot.
• CDC recommendations allow for mix and match dosing for booster shots (e.g., If your primary series was Pfizer, you may receive Moderna as the Booster).

We highly recommend receiving your booster shot during the Thanksgiving holiday to protect yourself and your loved ones over the upcoming semester break.

For instructions on how to upload your updated vaccination card to CoVerified, please visit the COVID-19 website.

For more information on vaccine boosters, visit: https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/vaccines/booster-shot.html

For vaccine booster locations, visit https://www.vaccines.gov/

Stay healthy,

MCPHS COVID-19 Team

Dear MCPHS Students,

As we approach the Thanksgiving break, we want to remind you all to maintain your required COVID-19 testing compliance during the break. This year, Thanksgiving break begins on Wednesday, November 24 and ends on Sunday, November 28.

Since travel and large social gatherings increase the risk of spreading COVID-19 to family, friends, and particularly those at higher risk because of age or preexisting conditions, we strongly recommend that those who plan to travel or receive guests for Thanksgiving receive a negative COVID-19 test result within 72 hours of their planned departure.

THANKSGIVING BREAK COVID-19 TESTING

Before returning to campus:

• Vaccinated students on campus are required to provide negative test results no older than seven days. For example, you may get tested on Monday, November 22 or Tuesday, November 23 in order to screen your test result before your departure and maintain testing compliance before your return to campus on Monday, November 29. If your return to campus is later in the week, please schedule your test accordingly.
• Unvaccinated students on campus are required to provide negative test results no older than three to four days. For example, you may get tested on Monday, November 22 or Tuesday, November 23 in order to screen your test result before your departure; however, you must test again to maintain testing compliance before your return to campus. Since the testing sites on campus are not open on Friday, November 26, consider testing on Saturday, November 27 or Sunday, November 28; however, please note that testing on Sunday may not ensure that the results are ready for your return to campus. If testing off campus, inquire about turnaround time, as they might take a while with many people seeking testing after the holiday. If your return to campus is later in the week, please schedule your test accordingly.
• In addition to having a negative test result, all students are required to upload their daily symptom report to CoVerified prior to their return to campus.

Note: All MCPHS testing centers will be closed on Thursday, November 25 and Friday, November 26. The testing centers will reopen on Saturday, November 27 and Sunday, November 28.

Please schedule your test at one of the MCPHS testing sites, using the CoVerified application. You may choose to get a PCR test at an outside facility, but please be aware that you will not be reimbursed, and you must upload your PCR test results to CoVerified. No rapid antigen tests will be accepted.

• The Boston campus testing site is located adjacent to the Fennell building on Palace Road.
• The Boston campus (inside) testing site is located in Room 229 of the Fennell building.
• The Worcester campus testing site is located behind 10 Lincoln Square at the corner of School Street.
• The Manchester campus testing site is located in the lower lot of the Manchester campus, off Hollis Street.

Refer to the Testing Schedule to download the hours of operation for the testing sites on each campus. For further questions on testing, please email COVID19team@mcphs.edu or call 617.732.2798.

 We hope you all have a restful and happy Thanksgiving. 

 Stay healthy,

MCPHS COVID-19 Team

Dear MCPHS Faculty and Staff,

As we approach the Thanksgiving break, we want to remind you all to maintain your required COVID-19 testing compliance during the break. This year, Thanksgiving break begins on Wednesday, November 24 and ends on Sunday, November 28.

Since travel and large social gatherings increase the risk of spreading COVID-19 to family, friends, and particularly those at higher risk because of age or preexisting conditions, we strongly recommend that those who plan to travel or receive guests for Thanksgiving receive a negative COVID-19 test result within 72 hours of their planned departure.

THANKSGIVING BREAK COVID-19 TESTING

Before returning to campus:

• Vaccinated faculty and staff on campus are required to provide negative test results no older than seven days. For example, you may get tested on Monday, November 22 or Tuesday, November 23 in order to screen your test result before your departure and maintain testing compliance before your return to campus. If your return to campus is later in the week, please schedule your test accordingly.
• Unvaccinated faculty and staff on campus are required to provide negative test results no older than three to four days. For example, you may get tested on Monday, November 22 or Tuesday, November 23 in order to screen your test result before your departure; however, you must test again to maintain testing compliance before your return to campus. Since the testing sites on campus are not open on Friday, November 26, consider testing on Saturday, November 27 or Sunday, November 28; however, please note that testing on Sunday may not ensure that the results are ready for your return to campus. If testing off campus, inquire about turnaround time, as they might take a while with many people seeking testing after the holiday. If your return to campus is later in the week, please schedule your test accordingly.
• In addition to having a negative test result, all faculty and staff are required to upload their daily symptom report to CoVerified prior to their return to campus.

Note: All MCPHS testing centers will be closed on Thursday, November 25 and Friday, November 26. The testing centers will reopen on Saturday, November 27 and Sunday, November 28.

Please schedule your test at one of the MCPHS testing sites, using the CoVerified application. You may choose to get a PCR test at an outside facility, but please be aware that you will not be reimbursed, and you must upload your PCR test results to CoVerified. No rapid antigen tests will be accepted.

• The Boston campus testing site is located adjacent to the Fennell building on Palace Road.
• The Boston campus (inside) testing site is located in Room 229 of the Fennell building.
• The Worcester campus testing site is located behind 10 Lincoln Square at the corner of School Street.
• The Manchester campus testing site is located in the lower lot of the Manchester campus, off 49 Hollis Street.

Refer to the Testing Schedule to download the hours of operation for the testing sites on each campus. For further questions on testing, please email COVID19team@mcphs.edu or call 617.732.2798.

We hope you all have a restful and happy Thanksgiving. 

Stay healthy,

MCPHS COVID-19 Team

Dear MCPHS Students:

We wanted to update you on what to expect when coming to campus for the spring 2022 term. In this email, you will find information about MCPHS COVID-19 testing requirements and guidance on your pre-arrival testing, arrival, and ongoing testing requirements, as well as general COVID-19 health and safety guidelines and post-vaccine protocols.

Our procedures on campus continue to be based on science and the most up-to-date guidance from public health experts as well as CDC, state, and local health authorities. Our first priority is, and will always be, the health and safety of our students and other Community members. 

PRE-ARRIVAL TESTING INFORMATION

• All students must obtain a pre-arrival PCR COVID-19 test, upload their negative test result to the CoVerified mobile application, and have their result approved by the MCPHS COVID-19 Team, in order for students to come to campus, move into University housing, or attend classes. The CoVerified app is what we use to schedule COVID-19 tests, upload outside test results, report symptoms, and check campus clearance status. If you haven’t done so already, please download the CoVerified app prior to arriving on campus. If you have difficulty downloading the CoVerified app, please contact the MCPHS Help Desk.
• Students arriving on campus must have had their test swab sample taken not more than 72 hours prior to arrival on campus. For example, if you are scheduled to be on campus January 10, 2022, you must have proof of a negative test result conducted not earlier than January 7, 2022.
• Students who have not received their negative test result will have to quarantine in their residence hall or off-campus housing until they receive a negative test result. Therefore, in order to ensure that you have received a valid test result, it is highly recommended that you get your test taken three days prior to your arrival on campus.
• Students who have a negative test result that is more than 72 hours old will be tested on campus and will have to quarantine in their residence hall or off-campus housing until they receive a negative test result.
• Students who arrive on campus for classes without a negative pre-arrival test taken not more than 72 hours prior to arrival will not be permitted on campus.
• Individuals with symptoms consistent with a prospective COVID-19 diagnosis, regardless of a negative test, result will not be allowed on campus.

• Residential students may bring two guests, such as a family member or friend, to help them move in during their two-hour window. Guests must also obtain a COVID-19 test not more than 72 hours before move-in and must be prepared to provide proof of a negative test result.
• If you live within close proximity to one of MCPHS’s three campuses, you may schedule your pre-arrival test on that campus. Be aware that the test may take up to 48 hours to return results and the test swab sample must be taken not more than 72 hours prior to arrival on campus.
• The Boston campus testing site is located adjacent to the Fennell building on Palace Road.
• The Worcester campus testing site is located behind 10 Lincoln Square, at the corner of School Street and Major Taylor Blvd.
• The Manchester campus testing site is located in the lower lot of the Manchester campus, off 49 Hollis Street. 

Please refer to the Testing Schedule to download the Testing Center Hours of Operation for the latest testing days and times. Test time availability is on a first-come-first-served basis.

As mentioned above, the CoVerified app is what we use to schedule COVID-19 tests, upload outside test results, report symptoms, and check campus clearance status.

• Students may obtain their own COVID-19 pre-arrival test from an outside provider; however, the COVID-19 team will only accept results from a PCR test. No rapid antigen tests will be accepted. MCPHS will reimburse students for any out-of-pocket testing costs related to their pre-arrival test. Ongoing testing will not be reimbursed. Please contact COVID19team@mcphs.edu with details of your expenses.

• Any COVID-19 test laboratory report from an outside facility must be uploaded to the CoVerified app and include the following:
• The complete report in English
• Your full name clearly visible with another identifier such as a DOB
• The laboratory/facility address
• Collection date and time
• Type of test performed
• Results with a date and time

ARRIVAL INFORMATION 

• Students will receive an arrival test when they get to campus.

• The arrival test does not replace the pre-arrival test requirement.

• Ongoing testing will also be conducted, as appropriate, up to twice per week to manage the safety of our Community. Please refer to the Testing Schedule to download the COVID-19 Testing Frequency Schedule for the latest testing requirements. Please note that unvaccinated students with an approved exemption will be required to test twice a week.

• Students are also required to report their symptoms on the CoVerified app before physically coming to campus the morning of each regularly scheduled day.

COVID-19 VACCINATION REQUIREMENT FOR SPRING 2022

• All students planning to be on campus for the spring 2022 semester are required to be fully immunized (considered 2 weeks after the last dose in the vaccine series) against the virus that causes COVID-19 and to provide record of their vaccination prior to arrival on campus.
• Student proof of vaccination is due December 1, 2021. If you have not done so already, upload the required documentation to CastleBranch as soon as possible for verification and approval. All students have received information on how to upload proof of vaccination to CastleBranch. Any questions about using CastleBranch should be directed to the company at customerservice@castlebranch.com or 888.723.4263. More information regarding the MCPHS Immunization Policy can be found here.
• In addition, we request that all students upload their vaccine card to the CoVerified app.
• If a student is unable to obtain one or more immunizations due to medical or religious reasons, they may upload the Vaccine Exemption Form to CastleBranch.

COVID-19 HEALTH AND SAFETY GUIDELINES 

It is critical to the health and safety of the entire MCPHS Community that each and every individual commits to: 

• wearing a mask  
• covering coughs and sneezes 
• frequently washing hands 
• avoiding large groups 
• monitoring health daily 
• staying home when you are not well 

POST-VACCINE PROTOCOLS

• COVID-19 health and safety guidelines remain in place notwithstanding COVID-19 vaccination status.
• All individuals will be required to continue wearing masks indoors and continue their respective COVID-19 testing compliance regardless of vaccination status.

We appreciate your cooperation as we continue to make our way through the pandemic.

If you have any questions about COVID-19 testing, please email COVID19team@mcphs.edu

or call 617.732.2798.

Stay healthy, 

MCPHS COVID-19 Team 

Dear MCPHS Faculty, Staff, and Contractors,

As we are approaching the middle of the semester we wanted to bring to your attention some important information in regards to testing and symptom reporting.
It is expected that you check your COVID-19 test results in the CoVerified app to confirm you have received a negative test result prior to coming to campus. You may need to refresh your app for the most current update.

When your test result is ready, Ellkay will send you a notification via email (NoReply@lknotification.com), CoVerified will also send a notification to the app; however, you still need to review the test result in the CoVerified app to verify you have a negative result as opposed to an inconclusive result. If your test result is inconclusive, you will not be able to access campus. Following an inconclusive test result, you should immediately schedule another test at one of MCPHS's testing centers.

Inconclusive tests are typically due to an inadequate sample:

• It is important to blow your nose well prior to testing
• Slowly swirl the cotton tip touching the inside of your nostril at least 4-5 times on each side for a total of 15 seconds.
• Place the swab with the cotton side down into the tube.

Always remember to check the label on the tube to ensure your information is correct. Test results typically arrive anywhere from 24-48 hours.

It is your responsibility to maintain the required testing cadence.

Information regarding the location of the testing centers at each campus can be found below:

• The Boston campus testing site is located adjacent to the Fennell building on Palace Road.
• The Worcester campus testing site is located behind 10 Lincoln Square at the corner of School Street.
• The Manchester campus testing site is located in the lower lot of the Manchester campus, off Hollis Street.

Please refer to the COVID-19 Testing Schedule webpage for more information on testing schedule frequency, hours of operation, and the CoVerified app.

As we approach allergies/cold and flu season many symptoms are consistent with COVID-19 symptoms. If you are experiencing any new symptoms than what you typically experience please submit your symptoms to the app and schedule to be tested. If you are actively ill with a cold or the flu do not come to campus, report your symptoms and test. If you are ill, stay home to recover and test prior to coming to campus.

Thank you,
The MCPHS COVID-19 Team

August 29, 2021

Dear MCPHS Community,

We are very pleased to report that 98% of all on-campus Community members are expected to be fully vaccinated against COVID-19 by the start of the fall 2021 semester this week, in compliance with the University's requirement. Vaccination exemptions have been approved for the remaining 2% of the on-campus Community. The COVID-19 website has been updated with the latest MCPHS Community vaccination percentages for on-campus students, faculty, and staff. Please visit https://www.mcphs.edu/covid for more details on the vaccination requirement, testing schedules and statistics, and other health and safety measures that the University is taking against COVID-19.

Additionally, we would like to thank all our on-campus Community members in advance for your commitment to testing up to two times per week and complying with the mask-wearing requirement for all shared indoor settings. As in the past, the MCPHS COVID-19 Team will continue contact tracing, and MCPHS facilities staff will maintain stringent cleaning protocols. We are confident that our communal vaccination effort coupled with continued testing, contact tracing, masking requirements, and facility disinfecting, will keep everyone on campus safe this fall.

We are all looking forward to welcoming students and colleagues back to campus this week and are eager to join a renewed campus life that preserves both the best of the pre-pandemic experience and the learning innovations of the past eighteen months.

Be well,
Richard J. Lessard, President
Caroline Zeind, Vice President for Academic Affairs and Provost
MCPHS COVID-19 Team

August 26, 2021

Dear MCPHS Students:

We wanted to remind you about what to expect when coming to campus for the fall 2021 term. In this email, you will find information about MCPHS COVID-19 testing requirements and guidance on your pre-arrival testing, arrival, and ongoing testing requirements, as well as general COVID-19 health and safety guidelines and post-vaccine protocols.

This information is also available on the COVID-19 website.

Our procedures on campus continue to be based on science and the most up-to-date guidance from public health experts as well as CDC, state, and local health authorities. Our first priority is, and will always be, the health and safety of our students and other Community members.

PRE-ARRIVAL TESTING INFORMATION

• All students must obtain a pre-arrival PCR COVID-19 test and be prepared to provide proof of a negative test result in order to come to campus to move into University housing or attend classes.
• Students arriving on campus must have had their test swab sample taken not more than 72 hours prior to arrival on campus. For example, if you are scheduled to be on campus August 31^st, 2021 you must have proof of a negative test result conducted not earlier than August 28^th, 2021.
  • Students who have not received their negative test result will have to quarantine in their residence hall or off-campus housing until they receive a negative test result. Therefore, in order to ensure that you have received a valid test result, it is highly recommended that you get your test taken three days prior to your arrival on campus.
  • Students who have a negative test result that is more than 72 hours old will be tested on campus and will have to quarantine in their residence hall or off-campus housing until they receive a negative test result.
  • Students who arrive on campus for classes without a negative pre-arrival test taken not more than 72 hours prior to arrival will not be permitted on campus.
  • Individuals with symptoms consistent with a prospective COVID-19 diagnosis, regardless of a negative test, result will not be allowed on campus.
• Residential students may bring two guests, such as a family member or friend, to help them move in during their two-hour window. Guests must also obtain a COVID-19 test not more than 72 hours before move-in and must be prepared to provide proof of a negative test result.
• If you live within close proximity to one of MCPHS’s three campuses, you may schedule your pre-arrival test on that campus. Be aware that the test may take up to 48 hours to return results and the test swab sample must be taken not more than 72 hours prior to arrival on campus.
  • The Boston campus testing sites are located adjacent to the Fennell building on Palace Road.
  • The Worcester campus testing site is located behind 10 Lincoln Square (corner of School Street and Major Taylor Blvd).
  • The Manchester campus testing site is located in the lower lot of the Manchester campus, off of 49 Hollis Street.

Please download the Testing Center hours of operation for the latest testing days and times. Test time availability is on a first-come-first-served basis.

The CoVerified mobile application is what we use to schedule COVID-19 tests, upload outside test results, report symptoms, and check campus clearance status. If you haven’t done so already, please download the CoVerified App prior to arriving on campus. If you have difficulty downloading the CoVerified app, please contact COVID19team@mcphs.edu or the MCPHS Help Desk.

• Students may obtain their own COVID-19 pre-arrival test from an outside provider, however, the COVID-19 team will only accept results from a PCR test. No rapid antigen tests will be accepted. MCPHS will reimburse students for any out-of-pocket testing costs related to their pre-arrival test. Ongoing testing will not be reimbursed. Please contact COVID19team@mcphs.edu with details of your expenses.
• Any COVID-19 test laboratory report from an outside facility must be uploaded to the CoVerified mobile application and include the following:
  • The complete report in English.
  • Your full name clearly visible with another identifier such as a DOB.
  • The laboratory/facility address.
  • Collection date and time
  • Results with a date and time

ARRIVAL INFORMATION

• Students will receive an arrival test when they get to campus.
• The arrival test does not replace the pre-arrival test requirement.
• Ongoing testing will also be conducted, as appropriate, up to twice per week to manage the safety of our Community. Please download the COVID-19 Testing Frequency Schedule for the latest testing requirements. Please note that unvaccinated students with an approved exemption will be required to test twice a week.
• Students are also required to report their symptoms on the CoVerified App before physically coming to campus the morning of each regularly scheduled day.

COVID-19 Vaccination Requirement for Fall 2021

• All students planning to be on campus for the fall 2021 semester are required to be fully immunized (considered 2 weeks after the last dose in the vaccine series) against the virus that causes COVID-19 and to provide record of their vaccination prior to arrival on campus.
• Student proof of vaccination was due August 1^st. If you have not done so already, upload the required documentation to Castle Branch as soon as possible for verification and approval. All students have received information on how to upload proof of vaccination to CastleBranch. Any questions about using CastleBranch should be directed to the company at customerservice@castlebranch.com or 888.723.4263. More information regarding the MCPHS Immunization Policy can be found here.
• If a student is unable to obtain one or more immunizations due to medical or religious reasons, they may upload the Vaccine Exemption Form to CastleBranch.

COVID-19 HEALTH AND SAFETY GUIDELINES

It is critical to the health and safety of the entire MCPHS Community that each and every individual commits to:

• wearing a mask
• maintaining physical distancing
• covering coughs and sneezes
• frequently washing hands
• avoiding large groups
• monitoring health daily
• staying home when you are not well

POST-VACCINE PROTOCOLS

• COVID-19 health and safety guidelines remain in place notwithstanding COVID-19 vaccination status.
• All individuals will be required to continue wearing masks indoors and continue their respective COVID-19 testing compliance regardless of vaccination status.

We appreciate your cooperation as we continue to make our way through the pandemic.

If you have any questions about COVID-19 testing, please email COVID19team@mcphs.edu or call 617-732-2798. Stay healthy,
MCPHS COVID-19 Team

August 26, 2021

Dear MCPHS Faculty and Staff:

We wanted to remind you of what to expect when coming to campus for the fall 2021 term. In this email, you will find information about MCPHS COVID-19 testing requirements and guidance on your pre-arrival testing, arrival, and ongoing testing requirements, as well as general COVID-19 health and safety guidelines and post-vaccine protocols.

This information is also available on the COVID-19 website.

Our procedures on campus continue to be based on science and the most up-to-date guidance from public health experts as well as CDC, state, and local health authorities. Our first priority is, and will always be, the health and safety of our students and other Community members.

• If faculty and staff are not in COVID-19 testing compliance, they must have a negative COVID-19 test result that is within 72 hours of their first day back on campus. Please remember that the test may take up to 48 hours to return results.
• Following their first day back on campus in August or September, faculty and staff should plan to maintain their respective testing frequency schedule (e.g., 1x/week, 2x/week) on an ongoing basis. Please download the COVID-19 Testing Frequency Schedule for the latest testing requirements.

Testing Information

• MCPHS COVID-19 Testing Centers are open on all three campuses. Please download the Testing Center hours of operation for the latest testing days and times. Test time availability is on a first-come-first-served basis.
• COVID-19 tests can be scheduled on the CoVerified application.
• Faculty and staff may also have their own COVID-19 test taken and uploaded into the CoVerified application. The COVID-19 team will only accept results from a PCR test. No rapid antigen tests will be accepted. MCPHS will reimburse faculty and staff for any out-of-pocket testing costs related to their pre-arrival test. Ongoing testing will not be reimbursed. Please contact COVID19team@mcphs.edu with details of these expenses.
• Any COVID-19 test laboratory report from an outside facility must be uploaded to the CoVerified mobile application and include the following:
  • The complete report in English.
  • Your full name clearly visible with another identifier such as a DOB.
  • The laboratory/facility address.
  • Collection date and results.
  • Results with a date and time

Coming to Campus Information

• In addition to having a negative COVID-19 test result, faculty and staff are required to complete symptoms reporting with the CoVerified application before physically coming to campus the morning of each regularly scheduled day.
  • Individuals with symptoms consistent with a prospective COVID-19 diagnosis, regardless of a negative test result, will not be allowed on campus.

COVID-19 Vaccination Requirement for Fall 2021

• All faculty and staff planning to be on campus for the fall 2021 semester are required to be fully vaccinated against the virus that causes COVID-19 and to provide record of their vaccination by August 31, 2021. Proof of vaccination can be uploaded through CoVerified.
• For those with a medical condition or sincerely held religious beliefs that preclude them from getting vaccinated, please consult with Human Resources at HR@mcphs.edu as soon as possible. For employees with a medical condition, you can also refer to the Reasonable Accommodations webpage for more information. If you have other concerns about getting vaccinated, please contact Human Resources.

COVID-19 Health and Safety Guidelines

It is critical to the health and safety of the entire MCPHS Community that each and every individual commits to:

• wearing a mask
• maintaining physical distancing
• covering coughs and sneezes
• frequently washing hands
• avoiding large groups
• monitoring health daily
• staying home when you are not well

Post-Vaccine Protocols

• COVID-19 health and safety guidelines remain in place notwithstanding COVID-19 vaccination status.
• All individuals will be required to continue wearing masks indoors and continue their respective COVID-19 testing compliance regardless of vaccination status.

We appreciate your cooperation as we continue to make our way through the pandemic.

If faculty and staff have any questions about COVID-19 testing, please email COVID19team@mcphs.edu or call 617-732-2798.

Stay healthy,
MCPHS COVID-19 Team

Dear MCPHS Students:

We wanted to update you on what to expect when coming to campus for the fall 2021 term. In this email, you will find information about MCPHS COVID-19 testing requirements and guidance on your pre-arrival testing, arrival, and ongoing testing requirements, as well as general COVID-19 health and safety guidelines and post-vaccine protocols.

This information is also available on the COVID-19 website.

Our procedures on campus continue to be based on science and the most up-to-date guidance from public health experts as well as CDC, state, and local health authorities. Our first priority is, and will always be, the health and safety of our students and other Community members.

PRE-ARRIVAL TESTING INFORMATION

• All students must obtain a pre-arrival PCR COVID-19 test and be prepared to provide proof of a negative test result in order to come to campus to move into University housing or attend classes.
• Students arriving on campus must have had their test swab sample taken not more than 72 hours prior to arrival on campus. For example, if you are scheduled to be on campus August 31^st, 2021 you must have proof of a negative test result conducted not earlier than August 28^th, 2021.
  • Students who have not received their negative test result will have to quarantine in their residence hall or off-campus housing until they receive a negative test result. Therefore, in order to ensure that you have received a valid test result, it is highly recommended that you get your test taken three days prior to your arrival on campus.
  • Students who have a negative test result that is more than 72 hours old will be tested on campus and will have to quarantine in their residence hall or off-campus housing until they receive a negative test result.
  • Students who arrive on campus for classes without a negative pre-arrival test taken not more than 72 hours prior to arrival will not be permitted on campus.
  • Individuals with symptoms consistent with a prospective COVID 19 diagnosis, regardless of a negative test, result will not be allowed on campus.
• If you live within close proximity to one of MCPHS’s three campuses, you may schedule your pre-arrival test on that campus. Be aware that the test may take up to 48 hours to return results and the test swab sample must be taken not more than 72 hours prior to arrival on campus.
  • The Boston campus testing sites are located adjacent to the Fennell building on Palace Road or in the Fennell building room 229
  • The Worcester campus testing site is located behind 10 Lincoln Square (corner of School Street and Major Taylor Blvd).
  • The Manchester campus testing site is located in the lower lot of the Manchester campus, off of 49 Hollis Street.

Please download the Testing Center hours of operation for the latest testing days and times. Test time availability is on a first-come-first-served basis.

The CoVerified mobile application is what we use to schedule COVID-19 tests, report symptoms, and check campus clearance status. If you haven’t done so already, please download the CoVerified App prior to arriving on campus. If you have difficulty downloading the CoVerified app, please contact COVID19team@mcphs.edu or the MCPHS Help Desk.

• Students may obtain their own COVID-19 pre-arrival test from an outside provider, however, the COVID-19 team will only accept results from a PCR. No rapid antigen tests will be accepted. MCPHS will reimburse students for any out-of-pocket testing costs related to their pre-arrival test. Ongoing testing will not be reimbursed. Please contact COVID19team@mcphs.edu with details of your expenses.
• Any COVID-19 test laboratory report from an outside facility must be uploaded to the CoVerified mobile application and include the following:
  • The complete report in English.
  • Your full name clearly visible with another identifier such as a DOB.
  • The laboratory/facility address.
  • Collection date and time
  • Results with a date and time
• If you do not think you will be able to get a COVID-19 pre-arrival test before you come to campus, please email COVID19team@mcphs.edu.

ARRIVAL INFORMATION

• Students will receive an arrival test when they get to campus.
• The arrival test does not replace the pre-arrival test requirement.
• Ongoing testing will also be conducted, as appropriate, up to twice per week to manage the safety of our Community. Please download the COVID-19 Testing Frequency Schedule for the latest testing requirements. Please note that unvaccinated students with an approved exemption will be required to test twice a week.
• Students are also required to report their symptoms on the CoVerified App before physically coming to campus the morning of each regularly scheduled day.

COVID-19 Vaccination Requirement for Fall 2021

• All students planning to be on campus for the fall 2021 semester are required to be fully immunized (considered 2 weeks after the last dose in the vaccine series) against the virus that causes COVID-19 and to provide record of their vaccination prior to arrival on campus.
• Student proof of vaccination was due August 1^st. If you have not done so already, upload the required documentation to Castle Branch as soon as possible for verification and approval. All students have received information on how to upload proof of vaccination to CastleBranch. Any questions about using CastleBranch should be directed to the company at customerservice@castlebranch.com or 888.723.4263. More information regarding the MCPHS Immunization Policy can be found here.
• If a student is unable to obtain one or more immunizations due to medical or religious reasons, they may upload the Vaccine Exemption Form to CastleBranch.

COVID-19 HEALTH AND SAFETY GUIDELINES

It is critical to the health and safety of the entire MCPHS Community that each and every individual commits to:

• wearing a mask
• maintaining physical distancing
• covering coughs and sneezes
• frequently washing hands
• avoiding large groups
• monitoring health daily
• staying home when you are not well

POST-VACCINE PROTOCOLS

• COVID-19 health and safety guidelines remain in place notwithstanding COVID-19 vaccination status.
• All individuals will be required to continue wearing masks indoors and continue their respective COVID-19 testing compliance regardless of vaccination status.

We appreciate your cooperation as we continue to make our way through the pandemic.

If you have any questions about COVID-19 testing, please email COVID19team@mcphs.edu or call 617-732-2798.

Stay healthy,
MCPHS COVID-19 Team

Dear MCPHS Faculty and Staff:

We wanted to update you on what to expect when coming to campus for the fall 2021 term. In this email, you will find information about MCPHS COVID-19 testing requirements and guidance on your pre-arrival testing, arrival, and ongoing testing requirements, as well as general COVID-19 health and safety guidelines and post-vaccine protocols.

This information is also available on the COVID-19 website.

Our procedures on campus continue to be based on science and the most up-to-date guidance from public health experts as well as CDC, state, and local health authorities. Our first priority is, and will always be, the health and safety of our students and other Community members.

• If faculty and staff are not in COVID-19 testing compliance, they must have a negative COVID-19 test result that is within 72 hours of their first day back on campus. Please remember that the test may take up to 48 hours to return results.
• Following their first day back on campus in August or September, faculty and staff should plan to maintain their respective testing frequency schedule (e.g., 1x/week, 2x/week) on an ongoing basis. Please download the COVID-19 Testing Frequency Schedule for the latest testing requirements.

Testing Information

• MCPHS COVID-19 Testing Centers are open on all three campuses. Please download the Testing Center hours of operation for the latest testing days and times. Test time availability is on a first-come-first-served basis.
• COVID-19 tests can be scheduled on the CoVerified application.
• Faculty and staff may also have their own COVID-19 test taken and uploaded into the CoVerified application. The COVID-19 team will only accept results from a PCR. No rapid antigen tests will be accepted. MCPHS will reimburse faculty and staff for any out-of-pocket testing costs related to their pre-arrival test. Ongoing testing will not be reimbursed. Please contact COVID19team@mcphs.edu with details of these expenses.
• Any COVID-19 test laboratory report from an outside facility must be uploaded to the CoVerified mobile application and include the following:
  • The complete report in English.
  • Your full name clearly visible with another identifier such as a DOB.
  • The laboratory/facility address.
  • Collection date and results.
  • Results with a date and time

Coming to Campus Information

• In addition to having a negative COVID-19 test result, faculty and staff are required to complete symptoms reporting with the CoVerified application before physically coming to campus the morning of each regularly scheduled day.
  • Individuals with symptoms consistent with a prospective COVID 19 diagnosis, regardless of a negative test result, will not be allowed on campus.

COVID-19 Vaccination Requirement for Fall 2021

• All faculty and staff planning to be on campus for the fall 2021 semester are required to be fully vaccinated against the virus that causes COVID-19 and to provide record of their vaccination by August 31, 2021. Proof of vaccination can be uploaded through CoVerified.
• For those with a medical condition or sincerely held religious beliefs that preclude them from getting vaccinated, please consult with Human Resources at HR@mcphs.edu as soon as possible. For employees with a medical condition, you can also refer to the Reasonable Accommodations webpage for more information. If you have other concerns about getting vaccinated, please contact Human Resources.

COVID-19 Health and Safety Guidelines

It is critical to the health and safety of the entire MCPHS Community that each and every individual commits to:

• wearing a mask
• maintaining physical distancing
• covering coughs and sneezes
• frequently washing hands
• avoiding large groups
• monitoring health daily
• staying home when you are not well

Post-Vaccine Protocols

• COVID-19 health and safety guidelines remain in place notwithstanding COVID-19 vaccination status.
• All individuals will be required to continue wearing masks indoors and continue their respective COVID-19 testing compliance regardless of vaccination status.

We appreciate your cooperation as we continue to make our way through the pandemic.

If faculty and staff have any questions about COVID-19 testing, please email COVID19team@mcphs.edu or call 617-732-2798.

Stay healthy,
MCPHS COVID-19 Team

Dear MCPHS Students:

In advance of coming to campus for the fall 2021 semester, we wanted to make you aware that the MCPHS COVID-19 website has been updated to reflect campus operations related to COVID-19 beginning in September. Please visit the COVID-19 website for complete details.

The COVID-19 website is built to provide the MCPHS Community with the most up-to-date information. It is the primary platform used to publish new information, community-sourced FAQs, contact information, and past email communications. All new communications will be sent by email or by social media and text messages when appropriate. You can monitor your inbox and this website for all plans related to the fall 2021 semester. Use the navigation on the left to find answers to questions regarding the COVID-19 vaccination requirement, testing protocols, academics, residence halls, campus life, student support resources, and more.

University safety protocols apply to all students, faculty, and staff. All students planning to be on campus for the fall 2021 semester are required to be fully vaccinated against the virus that causes COVID-19 by August 1, 2021 unless they qualify for limited exemptions for medical or religious reasons. In addition, all vaccinated students, faculty, and staff will be required to have COVID-19 testing weekly and wear masks while on campus. For students, faculty, and staff who have an approved reason not to be vaccinated, they will also be required to wear masks and will be required to have more frequent testing. Unvaccinated students, faculty, and staff without an approved exemption will not be permitted on campus.

In the coming weeks, more specific details on pre-arrival testing, health and safety guidelines, and post-vaccine protocols will be sent to you in preparation for your arrival on campus in September.

If you have any questions or concerns regarding the MCPHS COVID-19 website, please email COVID19team@mcphs.edu or call 617-732-2798.

Stay healthy,
MCPHS COVID-19 Team

Dear MCPHS Employees,

MCPHS has made the decision to join the growing number of colleges and universities across the region and country to require all employees planning to be on campus for the fall 2021 semester to be fully vaccinated against the virus that causes COVID-19. Employees must be fully vaccinated by August 31, 2021 unless they qualify for limited exemptions for medical or religious reasons. This decision was made consistent with our position as a comprehensive healthcare university and in accordance with medical and public health experts that vaccines are the most effective way for us to prevent the spread of the virus on campus.

Vaccines are widely available at numerous locations across New England. The CDC website lists resources for finding and making a vaccine appointment. It can take up to six weeks to be fully vaccinated depending on which vaccine is taken, so it is important that employees plan on getting their vaccine accordingly in order to be in vaccine compliance by the end of August.

Once you have received all the requisite dose(s) of your chosen vaccine, you can upload your results through CoVerified or notify your supervisor that you have been fully vaccinated along with the date you became fully vaccinated.

For those with a medical condition or sincerely held religious beliefs that preclude them from getting vaccinated, please consult with Human Resources at HR@mcphs.edu as soon as possible. For employees with a medical condition, you can also refer to the Reasonable Accommodations webpage for more information. If you have other concerns about getting vaccinated, please contact Human Resources.

In addition, all vaccinated employees and students will be required to have COVID-19 testing weekly and wear masks while on campus. For employees and students who have an approved reason not to be vaccinated, they will also be required to wear masks and will be required to have more frequent testing. Unvaccinated employees without an approved exemption will not be permitted on campus.

It is clear that vaccinations are a powerful tool in combatting COVID-19, and requiring vaccines will protect our Community and ensure that MCPHS does its part to achieve population immunity. Thank you for your continued efforts and cooperation. We should all look forward to an energized and vibrant campus in the fall.

Sincerely,
Kevin Dolan
Chief Human Resources Officer
Human Resources

Dear MCPHS Students,

MCPHS has made the decision to join the growing number of colleges and universities across the state and country to require all students to have the COVID-19 vaccine in order to be on campus for the fall 2021 semester. Please note that there are already some clinical sites requiring COVID-19 vaccination, and you will need to follow the site’s requirements with respect to COVID-19 vaccination. Undergraduate and graduate students must be fully vaccinated prior to the start of the fall academic year, unless they qualify for limited exemptions for medical or religious reasons. Information on how to apply for an exemption will be communicated later in the spring. This decision was made in accordance with medical and public health experts and is the most effective way for us to prevent the spread of the virus on campus.

Vaccines are now widely available for those age 16 and older. For those in the United States, the CDC website lists resources for finding and making a vaccine appointment. For international students, MCPHS will work with you to obtain a vaccination once you arrive in the United States. If you would like more information regarding the vaccine, you can contact the MCPHS COVID-19 Team for assistance at COVID19team@mcphs.edu. Additionally, MCPHS will be hosting vaccine clinics on all three campuses; Boston on May 5, Worcester on May 6, and Manchester on May 7. Detailed information on the hours of operation and appointment registration for these clinics will be sent later this week.

It is clear that vaccinations are a powerful tool in combatting COVID-19, and requiring vaccines will protect our Community and ensure that MCPHS does its part to help our nation move toward herd immunity. Updates regarding submitting your proof of vaccination will be communicated to you before the start of the fall semester.

Thank you all for your continued efforts and cooperation and we should all look forward to an energized and vibrant campus in the fall.

Sincerely,
Richard J. Lessard, President

Dear Colleagues,

As vaccines continue to be administered to people across our region and the country, we can start to feel the beginnings of a return to what we remember prior to the COVID-19 pandemic. In Massachusetts, 54% of the population has received at least one dose of the vaccine while 59% has received at least one dose in New Hampshire. Nationwide, 43% of the eligible population has received at least one dose. As the CDC, public health officials, and Massachusetts and New Hampshire government officials indicate, the COVID-19 vaccination is an important tool to help stop the COVID-19 pandemic, and people should receive all recommended doses of a COVID-19 vaccine to receive the most protection.

As more people get vaccinated, and as people recover from the COVID-19 virus, we begin to approach what is referred to as “herd immunity.” According to the CDC, herd immunity is “a situation in which a sufficient proportion of a population is immune to an infectious disease (through vaccination and/or prior illness) to make its spread from person to person unlikely. Even individuals not vaccinated (such as newborns and those with chronic illnesses) are offered some protection because the disease has little opportunity to spread within the community.” The faster people get vaccinated, the faster we can reach herd immunity.

MCPHS has made the decision consistent with many other colleges and universities around the country to require students to be fully vaccinated in order to return to campus for the fall 2021. It is less clear at the moment what might be expected of employees. As we look to the fall, we will closely follow guidance from the CDC as well as state and local officials, and we strongly recommend you get vaccinated at your earliest convenience.

To support our own planning now for the fall, it would be helpful to know what percentage of our community has been vaccinated. Not only is this important for our campuses, but it will likely also be a requirement of clinical rotation sites. In some cases, it already is a requirement.

If you have been vaccinated and are willing to share that information, we have an easy way to upload your vaccine documentation. Using the CoVerified app, you can upload a picture of your vaccine card via the “Upload Vaccine Record” link under the “Report” section of the app. If you have questions about accessing and/or using the app, please contact the Help Desk.

Once again, we strongly recommend that you get vaccinated. The CDC website lists resources for finding and making a vaccine appointment. Additionally, MCPHS will be hosting vaccine clinics on all three campuses: Boston on May 5, Worcester on May 6, and Manchester on May 7. Detailed information on the hours of operation and appointment registration for these clinics will be sent later this week.

Thank you all for your continued help and cooperation. We will update you as we get more clarity on the best and safest approach on vaccine requirements for our faculty and staff.

Sincerely,
Richard J. Lessard, President