University Changes Effective April 26, 2023

All new non-clinical faculty, staff and students throughout Thomas Jefferson University are no longer required to have completed a COVID-19 primary vaccination series as a condition of employment or university admission as per the Philadelphia Department of Health (April 12, 2023).

Exceptions:

• Students and faculty/staff who are clinical (participate in educational activities involving patient exposure or activities within a healthcare facility) are still required to have completed a COVID-19 primary vaccination series.*
• Some clinical training locations that are not part of Thomas Jefferson University require that all students, including visiting students, be “up-to-date” with COVID-19 vaccination. (“Up-to-date” is defined by CDC as having completed a COVID-19 primary vaccination series and the most recent booster.) As a result, students are strongly encouraged to become “up-to-date” in anticipation of rotating at one or more of these outside training locations.

*Unless they receive an approved exemption.

A Message from Mark L. Tykocinski, MD

To All Thomas Jefferson University Faculty, Staff & Students:

I am pleased to announce that, over the past few weeks, COVID-19 case rates have been steadily decreasing in the Philadelphia region. After much discussion with the Philadelphia Department of Public Health, Jefferson has made the following adjustments to our COVID-19 policy and guidelines on campus:

• Mask Mandate:
• Effective March 21, 2022, masks are no longer required indoors and are optional in non-clinical settings. Instructors cannot require or ask students to wear masks in classrooms, however individuals are free to wear masks if they choose. Any instructors who have questions should contact their department chair.
• Students, faculty and staff in hospital and clinic/outpatient settings are still required to follow hospital guidelines and wear proper masks/PPE. Please review the enterprise masking guidelines you received via email on 3/11 for further details.
• Visitor Vaccination Policy: Effective immediately, University visitors no longer need to provide proof of vaccination to come on campus.
• Cafeteria Guidelines: Effective immediately, Jefferson IDs are not required to purchase food in cafeterias. Please note that catering services remain limited at this time.
• On-Campus Events: Refreshments are now allowed at on-campus events.
• Residence Hall Guests: Students may now have one guest each in the residence halls. The guest must bring proof of full vaccination in order to be admitted as a guest.

For additional details, please refer to the Jefferson Playbook which has been updated as of March 9, 2022. Students can access the Playbook HERE in the Student Portal. Faculty and staff can access the Playbook HERE in myJeffHub.

While this is certainly a turning point in the pandemic, please note that we still must remain vigilant and take certain safety precautions. We will update the mask, distancing and gathering policies should conditions warrant. As a reminder, if you have been exposed to COVID-19, are symptomatic or have a confirmed positive test, please follow the instructions below:

• Students: Call 215-951-0168 or contact Students.COVID19@jefferson.edu.
• Faculty & Staff: Use the JOHN COVID Hotline Tool for immediate screening and further direction.

Please continue to check your Jefferson email for important updates. If you have any questions, please contact Peter.Miller@jefferson.edu.

Thank you.

A Message from Mark L. Tykocinski, MD

To All Thomas Jefferson University Faculty, Staff & Students:

As we start the semester, I wanted to share some important updates made to our Jefferson Playbook to help keep you informed about how we are navigating this semester during the evolving COVID-19 pandemic.

Here are some highlights of the changes made to the Playbook:

On-Campus Masking and Social Distancing Policies

• The University requires all persons, regardless of vaccination status, to wear surgical ear-loop masks or other medical-grade masks in all indoor University locations.
• Cloth masks when worn singly are not permissible. Cloth masks are permissible only when a surgical ear-loop mask is worn underneath.
• The University will provide, as supplies are available, surgical ear-loop masks at entrances to libraries and many other buildings on our campuses, as well as in many academic program offices, administrative offices and student services locations. Individuals are highly encouraged to also procure their own masks.

Off-Campus Masking Policy

• Faculty, staff and students must wear masks in indoor settings when off-campus under the following circumstances: 
• When traveling in a University-owned or procured vehicle, and;
• When in an indoor setting for a University-related event, program or other activity (with the exception of student-athletes participating in an athletics event), and;
• Faculty, staff and students must follow the mask requirements stipulated by local regulations (including transportation providers and event providers) when travelling for University business or for a University-related program or event.

COVID-19 Vaccine Policy

• Jefferson’s Vaccine Policy applies to all full-time, part-time, matriculated and non-matriculated students at Thomas Jefferson University. Online-only students with no on-campus presence and no experiential or clinical rotations are exempt from this policy. Students in programs with didactic coursework taught online that also includes clinical or experiential rotations are subject to this policy and must complete full vaccination. All students, including online learners, who anticipate a need to come to campus at any point during the course of a semester must abide by the vaccination requirements set forth in this policy. 

Athletics

• The NCAA COVID-19 Medical Advisory Group will continue to assess emerging COVID-19 information and develop health and safety considerations in order to provide guidance to the entire NCAA membership. The advisory group is not a policymaking body, therefore they do not mandate anything of the membership. Rather, NCAA defers to each institution to develop their respective COVID-19 policies and restrictions in conjunction with their local/state governing bodies. 

Students can view these changes and more by logging into BannerWeb and clicking "Spring 2022 Student Playbook." Please review the Playbook thoroughly for comprehensive details pertaining to all University policies, procedures and operations.

In addition to the Playbook, please review the following reminders:

• Guidance for Possible COVID Symptoms and/or Exposure: Students who are confirmed positive, symptomatic or those who have been exposed to COVID-19 should contact the COVID-19 Line: Students.COVID19@jefferson.edu or 215-951-0168. Please be sure to leave your full name and call-back number. Students can also access Jefferson’s telehealth platform, JeffConnect, free of charge if they are feeling ill. Visit Jefferson.edu/JeffConnect for more details. Students who utilize JeffConnect should still call or email the COVID Line after the appointment.
• Surveillance Testing: The University reserves the right to carry out surveillance COVID testing on random samples of Jefferson students (including vaccinated students) during the academic year. The testing protocol is based on guidance from population health experts and clinical leaders at Jefferson and public health agencies, and is designed to help detect levels of infection, particularly among asymptomatic individuals. Student participation in this program is mandatory and a requirement for remaining on campus. The University will communicate testing dates, times and locations to students by email during the week prior to their test, and students are excused from classes during the times of their tests.
• Visitor Policy: All visitors must complete an online vaccination attestation form prior to their visit. Visitors must also bring proof of vaccination to campus and be prepared to present it to a University official if requested. The online visitor attestation form can be found here. Visitor access to campus may be affected by pandemic conditions, and any restrictions will be communicated to all students, faculty and staff.

It's important that you continue to check your Jefferson.edu email regularly for updates and refer to Jefferson.edu/Coronavirus, where detailed FAQs and other important resources can be found. If you have any questions, please contact Peter Miller, Senior Associate Provost for Academic Enterprise Initiatives.  

Thank you.

A Message from Mark L. Tykocinski, MD

To All Thomas Jefferson University Faculty, Staff & Students:

First, on behalf of the University leadership team, I’d like to wish you a Happy New Year.  

While the situation with COVID-19 continues to change, we are all looking forward to a productive spring semester. However, the realities of the COVID-19 variants and the effect on the resources required to begin the semester on time now necessitate that we make the changes below.

Also, over the coming days and weeks, we will continue to monitor the COVID-19 situation and if it is necessary to make additional changes to these latest plans, we will communicate in a timely manner by email and on our Coronavirus website.

CHANGES FOR THE SPRING 2022 SEMESTER:

Jefferson – East Falls Campus (including Voorhees, JIB and Bucks County)

• The spring semester will begin on January 12 as remote learning only through Friday, January 21. In-person learning will begin on Monday, January 24.
• All health-related students’ clinical requirements remain unchanged. You may receive further instruction from your programs regarding clinical and small group experiences, as necessary.
• A staggered move in to the residence halls will be held between January 21 and January 23. 
• More specific information will be forthcoming from Residence Life. Room and board charges will be prorated to reflect changes in the schedule.

Jefferson – Center City Campus (including Dixon)

• All mandatory large group lectures/meetings will switch to an online format, effective immediately and continue through January 23.
• All small group classes (as determined by your specific college) and clinical and laboratory experiences/rotations will continue as scheduled and planned. More information will be forthcoming from your programs, as necessary.

As a reminder, we are strongly encouraging all faculty, staff and students to get a booster shot as soon as possible. Booster shot appointments are available at Jefferson’s community sites and local pharmacies. Visit vaccines.gov to search additional options near you.

Also, students who are confirmed positive, symptomatic or those who have been exposed to COVID-19 should contact the COVID-19 line via email at Students.COVID19@jefferson.edu or call 215-951-0168. Please be sure to leave your full name and call-back number.

Students can also access JeffConnect (Jefferson’s telehealth platform) free of charge if they are feeling ill. Visit Jefferson.edu/JeffConnect for more details. Students who utilize JeffConnect should still call or email the COVID line after the appointment.

We look forward to welcoming you back in-person for the spring semester later in January. As always, please stay vigilant, wear your mask and be careful. Thank you.

A Message from Mark L. Tykocinski, MD

TO ALL FACULTY, STAFF AND STUDENTS

With the rise in cases of the delta and omicron variants locally and around the world, we are strongly encouraging all faculty, staff and students to get a booster shot as soon as possible over the holidays.  Booster shot appointments are available at Jefferson’s community sites and local pharmacies. Visit vaccines.gov to search additional options near you. The University will also hold pop-up booster clinics on our main campuses beginning in January. 

At this point our intention is to begin the spring semester as originally planned and on time.  We will continue to follow all of our COVID-19 protocols, which have served us well throughout the pandemic. Over the coming days and weeks, we will carefully monitor the COVID-19 situation and how it is evolving. If it is necessary to make any changes to our plans for your safe return to campus and our ability to optimize safety on campus, we will communicate any updates on changes in a timely manner by email and on our Coronavirus website.

I am proud of how we have managed and how you have handled the challenges presented to us by the pandemic. I know that all of us are looking forward to a time when we can be together under more normal conditions. In the meantime, our goal is to enable you to continue your studies and progress academically in as safe an environment as possible.

We look forward to welcoming you back for the Spring semester.  Please stay vigilant and be careful.  Wear your mask.

I wish you a safe, happy and healthy holiday season.

A Message from Mark L. Tykocinski, MD

To All Thomas Jefferson University Students:

I hope your semester is off to a fantastic start. To help keep you informed about how we are navigating this semester during the evolving COVID-19 pandemic, please continue to refer to Jefferson’s Fall 2021 Playbook. Students can access the Playbook by logging into BannerWeb and clicking "Fall 2021 Student Playbook."

Here are some highlights of the changes made to the Playbook as of September 20:

• COVID-19 Vaccine Policy
  • Exempted students who are on clinical rotations and are away from Philadelphia can obtain weekly PCR tests on their own and communicate those results to shs.results@jefferson.edu
  • Faculty, staff and students are required to disclose their vaccination status when complying with University policy regarding submitting proof of vaccination, requesting a waiver of vaccination, participating in surveillance testing, and other requirements. As a reminder, faculty, staff and students should not ask other individuals on campus about their vaccination status, and are not required to disclose their own vaccination status if asked outside the reasons listed above.
  • In accordance with City of Philadelphia regulations regarding required vaccination for individuals at colleges and universities, all university visitors must be fully vaccinated. Campus visitors will be required to complete an online attestation form to confirm they are vaccinated before arriving on campus. More details forthcoming. 
• University Mask Policy
  • Masks are required indoors in all University buildings regardless of vaccine status.
  • Any member of the University community can report non-compliance of the masking and social distancing policies to their RA, University leadership, or confidentially and anonymously to Jefferson’s Alert Line: 833-ONE-CODE (833-663-2633) or Jefferson.MyComplianceReport.com
• Meetings & Events
  • Events may occur in compliance with guidelines of the local/state jurisdiction, and all attendees must wear masks. For indoor meetings/gathering/events, no food or drinks are to be served or consumed at the activity.  Grab-and-go food can be dispensed at the conclusion of the activity. For outdoor meetings/gatherings/events, food and drinks can be served and consumed, but social distancing must be maintained.

Please review the Playbook thoroughly for comprehensive details pertaining to all University policies, procedures and operations.

In addition to the Playbook, please review the following reminders:

• Surveillance Testing: The University will carry out surveillance COVID testing on random samples of Jefferson students (including vaccinated students) during the academic year. The testing protocol is based on guidance from population health experts and clinical leaders at Jefferson and public health agencies, and is designed to help detect levels of infection, particularly among asymptomatic individuals. Student participation in this program is mandatory and a requirement for remaining on campus. The University will communicate testing dates, times and locations to students by email during the week prior to their test, and students are excused from classes during the times of their tests.
• Guidance for Possible COVID Symptoms and/or Exposure: Students should follow this guidance if they have symptoms that are associated with COVID-19 infection, have been diagnosed with COVID-19, or believe they have been recently exposed to COVID-19.

It's important that you continue to check your Jefferson.edu email regularly for updates and refer to Jefferson.edu/Coronavirus, where detailed FAQs and other important resources can be found. If you have any questions, please contact Peter Miller, Senior Associate Provost for Academic Enterprise Initiatives.  

Thank you.

SENT ON BEHALF OF:

Enterprise Incident Command Center

TO ALL JEFFERSON STAFF, FACULTY AND STUDENTS

Cases of the highly contagious COVID-19 Delta variant have been rising across our country. We have begun to see this trend occur at Jefferson and in our region. Thankfully, our experience at Jefferson aligns with national data in demonstrating the truly remarkable success of vaccination to prevent hospitalizations and death.

Recent evidence suggests that the current vaccines may not always prevent vaccinated people from passing COVID-19 to others that may be more vulnerable.  As always, our priority is safety. 

Therefore, we are adjusting our mask recommendations and requirements while we learn more about the impact of the Delta variant – see the attached PDFs sent via Jefferson.edu email on August 4, 2021:

Thank you for everything that you are doing to keep yourselves and our patients safe. Please check your email regularly as well as our internal and external websites for updates. We will continue to keep you informed as we move forward together. 

*****************************************************************

Watch the Latest Zurlo Report: Learn about the effectiveness of vaccination -- including studies on the Delta variant, how we measure vaccine immunity, and vaccine booster shots from Jefferson Infectious Diseases director Dr. John Zurlo. Watch the video link sent via Jefferson.edu email on August 4, 2021.

May 15, 2020

SENT ON BEHALF OF:

Stephen K. Klasko, MD, MBA
President, Thomas Jefferson University
CEO, Jefferson Health

Mark L. Tykocinski, MD
Provost and EVP for Academic Affairs
Dean, Sidney Kimmel Medical College

SUBJECT: 05-13-2020 COVID-19 Update: CARES Emergency Financial Aid Grants for Students

TO ALL THOMAS JEFFERSON UNIVERSITY STUDENTS:

We hope this email finds you well. You have likely heard about the federal government's Coronavirus Aid, Relief and Economic Security (CARES) Act and its provision of Emergency Financial Aid grants for students. As part of the CARES Act stimulus package, Thomas Jefferson University has been awarded grant funding that will provide students with additional resources to meet unexpected expenses related to the COVID-19 pandemic. CARES funding is intended and should be used for student expenses associated with the cost of attendance related to the disruption of campus operations due to coronavirus, such as food, housing, course materials, technology, health care and child-care expenses. While we understand that each and every one of you has experienced an upheaval of your day-to-day life as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic, we want to ensure that students with the most urgent need are the first to receive these emergency funds.

To apply for an individual CARES Act grant, we ask that you complete and submit the online application by logging into Bannerhttps://banner.jefferson.edu and then clicking on the CARES Act Grant link. The University is committed to reviewing applications and providing answers to students within a week of the application being received.

Please note that the Department of Education has specified that students are eligible to apply for funding under this program if they:

• Have filed or are eligible to file the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA)
• Are a U.S. citizen or eligible noncitizen;
• Have a valid Social Security number;
• Have registered with Selective Service (if the student is male);
• Have a high school diploma, GED, or have completed high school in an approved homeschool setting;
• Are not in default on a federal student loan nor owe money back on a federal student grant;
• Do not have a federal or state conviction for drug possession or sale; and
• Were not enrolled in an entirely online program on March 13, 2020.

For additional information about the CARES Act Grant funding and JeffSecure funding, please visit www.Jefferson.edu/coronavirus.

We are grateful for th e strength and commitment of everyone in the Jefferson community during this uncertain time.

April 24, 2020

To All Thomas Jefferson University Students:

Today I wanted to provide an update regarding summer programming. University academic programs will provide all summer and pre-fall semester didactic academic programming via online delivery.  

However, the University will also seek to re-start clinical rotations and other experiential education opportunities such as some labs, studios, and simulations as soon as safely possible. This will be dependent on directives from local and state governments, and on the ability for these facilities to provide to appropriate safety precautions such as social distancing, PPE, cleaning, and screening procedures.

For any questions regarding Summer 2020 academic programming, please contact your academic advisor directly.

Thank you and be well.

April 14, 2020

SENT ON BEHALF OF:
Charles A. Pohl, MD
Vice Provost of Student Affairs, Thomas Jefferson University
Vice Dean of Student Affairs and Professor of Pediatrics, Sidney Kimmel Medical College at Thomas Jefferson University

To All Thomas Jefferson University Students:

We know that navigating life during the COVID-19 pandemic has been challenging, and we want to remind you that Jefferson is here to support both you and your healthcare needs during this time. 

If you are feeling sick in any way, or if you think you have been exposed to COVID-19 and have symptoms, the best thing you can do is contact your primary care physician, or utilize JeffConnect – Jefferson’s video technology that delivers face-to-face care and consultation from the comfort of your home.

JeffConnect is easy to use and can be accessed from any mobile device or from a computer with a webcam, 24/7. Visit theJeffConnect website for more information, and see instructions on how to use the system. No co-pay is required to use JeffConnect – it’s one of your student benefits. 

Currently, many are suffering from seasonal allergies, which are kicking up this time of year, and can present many similar symptoms of COVID-19. See the attached infographic on how to tell the difference between allergies and COVID-19 symptoms, and read what Jefferson allergist, Dr. John Cohen, says about differentiating the two on The Health Nexus.

In addition, please be sure to utilize Jefferson’s wellness resources and tips that are available to you and your families during this trying time on Jefferson.edu/Coronavirus. 

Our primary interest is always protecting the health and safety of our students, especially now. We will continue to communicate with you regularly and ask that your monitor your email for updates.

SENT ON BEHALF OF:

Charles A. Pohl, MD
Vice Provost of Student Affairs, Thomas Jefferson University
Vice Dean of Student Affairs and Professor of Pediatrics, Sidney Kimmel Medical College at Thomas Jefferson University

Alexandra C. Leto
Lead Coordinator, Jefferson Student COVID-19 Volunteer Efforts, SKMC Class of 2021

To All Thomas Jefferson University Students:

The spirit of volunteerism throughout Thomas Jefferson University has been unprecedented during this time. In the transition from learning in a clinical setting to an online forum, we have seen many of you crave to reconnect with your patients, teachers, and mentors, while also feeling a strong desire to serve the community. While unable to provide assistance in the clinical setting, you have found many ways to help support the health system during this trying time. As we continue to forge through this time of uncertainty, we would like to offer a streamlined forum for students to access volunteer opportunities to assist the Jefferson Health System in the fight against the COVID-19 pandemic.

We have received a number of inquiries over the past 3 week from various departments at TJUH calling for student volunteers to assist in COVID-19 efforts. These efforts have served to help alleviate the burden on the department's staff and provide comfort and support to patients. Many of these projects have included triaging patients over the phone, assisting patients in making telemedicine appointments, providing necessary CDC guideline information about COVID-19, and staffing the Jefferson Employee Hotline. 

Additionally, students have been eager to help! In the last poll sent out to the University calling for volunteers, we received over 200 student responses across various colleges. We want to express our sincere gratitude to all of those who have been willing to help. The altruistic nature of the student body is truly incredible. 

In order to streamline these volunteer efforts, we have developed an online Student Volunteerism Platform. This website will serve as a forum where departments in Jefferson Health System can display their COVID-19 volunteer projects on a centralized website, and students can sign up to assist with that specific department's project directly. Departments in need of student volunteers will fill out a form to display information about their project. These projects will then be advertised on the Student Volunteerism website, and students interested in participating in a specific project can sign up to assist with that project directly through the platform. 

Once you have volunteered for a project and filled out the required form, you will receive a message confirming your response. The coordinators for the project will then be automatically notified. You will then receive communication directly from the department with the information necessary to begin your volunteer efforts. There is no limit to the number of projects for which you can volunteer. From now on, please use this platform to volunteer for COVID-19 efforts at Jefferson rather than the previously distributed Qualtrics poll.

Please contact Charles.Pohl@jefferson.edu or Alexandra.Leto@jefferson.edu if you have any questions.

April 6, 2020

SENT ON BEHALF OF 
Mark Tykocinski MD
EVP and Provost, Thomas Jefferson University
Dean, Sidney Kimmel Medical College

To All Thomas Jefferson University Graduating Students:

Today I am reaching out to you to give you an update about an event that has been on all of our minds, especially those of you who are approaching the time when we formally celebrate your achievements at Thomas Jefferson University – Commencement.

In the coming weeks we will be sending an invitation for you and your families to attend the first of our celebrations – albeit online. Our plan is to hold this virtual ceremony this summer, hosted by President Klasko and me, where each of the deans will present their graduating students to the president for the conferral of degrees. At the same time, we are working on plans for an in-person celebration later in the fall. The dates are still being solidified with the venues. As soon as these plans are firmed up, we will let you know.  

Many of you have been asking about your regalia. Due to the nature of the city and state Stay-at-Home orders, we have been delayed in receiving and processing those items. We will get them packaged and shipped to you when the Stay-at-Home orders are lifted and it is once again possible for us to return to campus. When your regalia (as well as some other special items to be enclosed) do arrive, we hope that you’ll share your photos with us on social media using #JeffersonGrad2020. 

We know these are challenging times that can take a toll on your mental and physical wellness. Jefferson has a number of resources of which we hope you’re taking advantage. Please visit Jefferson.edu/Coronavirus for more information. 

As always, please don’t hesitate to reach out with any questions at graduation@jefferson.edu.

Thank you and be well.

** 4/8/2020 update: Visit our commencement website for specific FAQs.

March 30, 2020

SENT ON BEHALF OF

Mark Tykocinski MD
EVP and Provost, Thomas Jefferson University
Dean, Sidney Kimmel Medical College

To All Thomas Jefferson University Faculty, Staff and Students:

Many colleges and universities around the country are providing an in-semester pass/fail option [or credit/no credit (CR/NC) as it has been designated at the Jefferson – East Falls Campus] as a result of changes and decisions that have necessarily been made as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic. Providing a credit/no credit (CR/NC) option has been discussed by Jefferson administrators, deans and faculty as a viable option to relieve stress in students at this point in the spring semester.

The rationale for providing a CR/NC option for you, our students, is based on several factors, including possible difficulty adapting to online learning, as well as students trying to learn while dealing with life issues impacting themselves, their families and friends secondary to the outbreak.

The policy for the spring 2020 semester is that all students will be permitted to designate any, or all of their courses as being completed on a credit/no credit (CR/NC) basis. This means that if you pass the course, you will receive credit; if you do not pass the course, you will not receive credit. This includes undergraduate and graduate students on all campuses.

Students are advised to discuss this choice with their faculty advisor, and will be informed by the university about potential ramifications of the CR/NC option on probation status and financial aid.

Traditional letter grades will be provided to students and recorded by course instructors, but the course grades on student transcripts will reflect the CR/NC designation if chosen by students. Students will be able to choose the CR/NC designation in place of traditional letter grades for a period of two days after the letter grades are released by the professor. Students should speak to their advisors about CR/NC prior to this period.

Courses with CR grades will still count toward their credits earned but will not impact your current grade point average (GPA) calculations. As mentioned, a NC grade will carry no credit for that course and will not impact your current GPA. In some programs, however, a NC grade could impede academic progression. The threshold for what constitutes “Credit” will be determined and communicated to students at the college or department/program level.

This policy will override the current policy (in the University Catalog) for the Spring 2020 semester only.

Students will receive supplemental information about this new policy from their academic programs or colleges, as well as from the Registrar’s Office.

The faculty and staff of the University wish all students continued success in your academic studies, and hope that you, your family and friends all stay safe and healthy during this challenging time.

4/24 Update: Instructions for declaring a Credit/No-Credit option

SENT ON BEHALF OF
Mark Tykocinski, MD
EVP and Provost, Thomas Jefferson University

TO EAST FALLS CAMPUS RESIDENTIAL STUDENTS:

We appreciate your support and patience in responding to our move to a fully online learning environment. Universities across the country are dealing with this very same situation and you have helped the transition at Jefferson to go smoothly. As we all adjust to this new way of teaching and learning, we will be making ongoing enhancements to ensure that you continue to get the same educational experience with the same faculty and professionals who support you every day. 

We are pleased to report that residential students will receive a pro-rated refund for housing and meal plans effective March 23, 2020 (the end of Spring break) to the end of the semester. 

Every refund will be different; we ask that you continue to be patient during the next weeks as we calculate the refunds for each student, which will differ based on scholarships, meal plan, account balance, and differences in pricing for different housing options. 

Please check your student account via BannerWeb to see the status of your housing and meal plan credit. If you are due a refund from this credit please be sure you have an eRefund profile set up to receive the funds.

Again, thank you for your patience. Best wishes for the successful completion of the spring semester.

SENT ON BEHALF OF:

Stephen K. Klasko MD, MBA
President, Thomas Jefferson University
CEO, Jefferson Health

Mark L. Tykocinski, MD
EVP and Provost, Thomas Jefferson University
Dean, Sidney Kimmel Medical College

Dear Graduating Students:

We are writing to you today with another difficult decision that we, as well as many other colleges and universities, have had to make. We have an obligation to follow the instructions recently issued by local and state governments and guidelines issued by the CDC to help contain the COVID-19 pandemic. This includes not holding large events. As a result, we must inform you that all Thomas Jefferson University in-person May commencement ceremonies will be postponed. Our goal is to have a virtual celebration with you, and explore ways to hold formal in-person celebratory ceremonies that acknowledge your achievement when it is safe again to bring large groups together. More details to follow on these plans, as well as logistics for conferral of degrees.

You have worked so hard. You have forged wonderful friendships. You have accomplished so much—and now this unforeseen global situation has no doubt caused distress, disappointment, and difficulty for you and your family. COVID-19 is a public health crisis; and this painful step is one that we know is necessary to help slow the spread of the virus. Even more importantly: taking this action will help protect your wellbeing and that of your families and friends, as well as Jefferson faculty and staff.

As engaged students, we know that you empathize with how upsetting and challenging the present moment is for so many people in our University, across the nation, and around the globe. And we think you understand that by pulling together—by thinking and acting as a community—we can emerge stronger from these trying times. 

When we do emerge, we will celebrate your academic accomplishments with even more fervor and joy than we might have even in “normal” times. And, throughout the coming weeks, months, and years, Jefferson will continue to do its utmost to help you thrive and succeed.

We will update you as plans/dates are firmed up, so you can inform your families and friends. Please check your email and direct mail to your homes for those updates.

Thank you for your patience and understanding, and, most of all, for your participation in making Jefferson a university that improves lives.

March 12, 2020
SENT ON BEHALF OF

Stephen Klasko, MD, MBA
President, Thomas Jefferson University
CEO, Jefferson Health

Mark Tykocinski, MD
Provost, Thomas Jefferson University

To the University Community,

We are writing to share an important update on our response to the novel coronavirus, known as COVID-19, and our plans for the remainder of the spring semester. While we have not had any COVID-19 cases at Thomas Jefferson University to date, we are faced with making difficult decisions related to what has become a global pandemic.

Our number one priority is what is best for you. We also need to do what is best socially, including mitigating any spread of COVID-19 and minimizing exposure for our campus community, your families and the broader community. Therefore, we have made the difficult decision, as have many other colleges and universities, to suspend in-person classes and transition to online classes for the remainder of the spring 2020 semester.

This means….

• There will be no in-person classes tomorrow, Friday, March 13.  Classes will begin in an online format on Monday, March 16 for those who are not on spring break. For students on spring break, your classes will be delivered in an online format beginning on Monday, March 23. Your academic programs will provide you with detailed information and instruction.
• Accommodations for critical access to on-campus resources will be made.
• All University policies, including Community Standards and the Student Sexual Misconduct Policy, remain in full effect during this period of online learning. Students are expected to adhere to Jefferson policies and procedures just as they would if classroom learning was still taking place.
• For those students who are leaving campus for spring break as well as all students, we strongly encourage you to complete your spring semester course work at home. This applies to all students who live on or off campus. 
• We will do our best to accommodate students or situations where this may not be possible.  If you have a special circumstance and must remain on campus, or need assistance in moving your belongings, please call Residence Life in East Falls at 215.951.2741 or in Center City at 215.955.8913.
• University events with more than 30 people are prohibited for the foreseeable future and should be postponed, cancelled, or offered virtually. We are working on a number of contingency plans for events. At this point, planning for our commencement ceremonies continues. We will keep you informed.
• Please note: the University will remain open. For the time being, staff should continue reporting to work as usual and take the recommended steps to prevent illness. 

We completely understand the enormity of these decisions and how challenging this may be for all members of the University community. As we are sure you are aware, we are not alone in taking these actions. Many other college students, faculty and staff are dealing with this same situation.  Please know that our decisions are guided by our goals to protect the health of our students, faculty and staff; to help slow the spread of the virus, and to ensure the continuity of teaching, research and clinical care. We can help achieve these goals by reducing the number of people who are living and meeting on our campuses. We are doing everything we can to make sure you are able to complete what is necessary for your academic progress. We are here to help you. 

We thank all of members of the University community who have worked so hard to ensure your safety and wellbeing. And, we thank all of you for your patience and understanding, and for your willingness to do your part to keep others safe and make the best out of this situation.

Please continue to read your broadcast email as this global pandemic situation is rapidly changing.  Also, you can find updated information on the www.jefferson.edu/coronavirus site, as well as information about COVID-19 at the CDC site.

March 10, 2020

To All Thomas Jefferson University Students

SENT ON BEHALF OF:
Mark Tykocinski, MD
Provost, Thomas Jefferson University

University Contingency Planning:

You may have heard that we are in the process of developing contingency plans to deliver your education online if it should ever become necessary due to any new developments with the current coronavirus. Yesterday, we sent an email to faculty and staff asking them to develop these plans. It is important for you to understand that it is not necessary at this time and there has been no decision made to implement such a plan now. But, like all colleges and universities, it is prudent to proactively plan to ensure the most continuity in your academic progress.

What Should I Do If I Think I’ve Been Exposed or Have Symptoms?

Some of you have asked what you should do if you think you have been exposed to someone who has tested positive with COVID-19 or if you are experiencing symptoms. The likelihood of contracting COVID-19 is still low. However, if you think you have been exposed or have symptoms, the best thing to do is contact your primary care physician by phone or, if you are enrolled, contact JeffConnect (there are IOS/Android apps for JeffConnect).

Please remember that our primary interest is protecting the health and safety of our students, staff and faculty. That is exactly why we take the steps we do and make sure we are planning appropriately. We will be communicating with you regularly and ask that you monitor your email and the website set up to keep our community informed at www.jefferson.edu/coronavirus.

Thank you.

March 9, 2020
TO ALL THOMAS JEFFERSON UNIVERSITY FACULTY, STAFF AND STUDENTS

SENT ON BEHALF OF:
Incident Command Center
Thomas Jefferson University

As you are aware, Jefferson is continuing to closely monitor all developments related to the COVID-19 respiratory disease. We are working across the Jefferson enterprise to proactively take steps aimed at protecting the safety and wellbeing of our students, faculty and staff. In order to do our part in taking necessary social distancing precautions to limit the spread of this and other illnesses, and out of an abundance of caution, we are instituting the following restrictions:

Domestic Travel

Effective immediately, all University supported domestic air-travel by students, faculty, and staff is suspended through May 12, 2020 due to COVID-19. We are continuously monitoring the situation with the possibility that this date could change. This includes travel for professional conferences, research meetings, and any other university-related work. Many universities have adopted the same policy. Unusual exceptions may be requested of the office of the Provost of Thomas Jefferson University.

Internal Meetings

We strongly advise against University supported in-person gatherings where we are anticipating 30 or more attendees through May 12, 2020. For all internal meetings, consider using audio visual technologies such as Zoom (can be used across mobile devices, desktops, and telephones) or phone conferencing.

University Events

All university-sponsored events through May 8, 2020 will be reviewed on a case-by-case basis by university leadership to determine if they will be held. Event sponsors will be notified directly as to the decision of the event. All administrative units hosting upcoming events should create contingency plans in case of cancellation or postponement. All university events must be uploaded by the deans or leadership who have access to our University Provost Cabinet SharePoint Site including all relevant event information.

Returning from International Travel

A reminder faculty and staff, and students who are returning from international travel should follow the policies which were posted February 27, 2020 at our University website www.Jefferson.edu/coronavirus. We will continue to revise policies about incoming visitors, as the situation evolves.

Thank you for your patience and compliance with these policies. Again, we will continue to keep you updated with any changes that may result from the evolving COVID-19 situation and CDC guidelines. If you have any questions, please contact your Dean or supervisor.

TO ALL JEFFERSON STUDENTS

SENT ON BEHALF OF

Stephen K. Klasko, MD, MBA
President, Thomas Jefferson University

Mark L. Tykocinski, MD
Provost, Thomas Jefferson University

Jefferson is closely monitoring all developments related to the COVID-19 respiratory disease. We are working across the Jefferson enterprise to proactively take steps aimed at protecting the safety and wellbeing of our students, faculty and staff. This morning, out of an abundance of caution, we made the difficult decision (as have other colleges and universities) to suspend all international university-related travel until May 12, 2020. This means that we are restricting any university-related travel for students, faculty and staff to anywhere outside of the U.S. for the spring semester. We will continue to monitor this situation carefully and make the appropriate and necessary decisions based on changes with the virus and CDC guidelines. We are processing applications for the upcoming summer and fall study abroad programs as planned. We will communicate with you if it becomes necessary to make the decision to suspend those programs as well.

Again, for Center City students currently abroad or are planning personal travel internationally, you must contact Jefferson Occupational Health Network (JOHN) on the Center City Campus at 215-955-6835. For students on the East Falls Campus, please contact the Student Health Center at 215-951-2986. This must be done before returning to campus.

We are doing everything we can to avoid disruption to your academic progress. Additionally, we are working to ensure that you do not bear the direct financial costs that may result due to this decision. Please consult with the Office of International Affairs on the Center City Campus at oia@Jefferson.edu or the Study Away Office at TJU_EF_StudyAbroad@Jefferson.edu on the East Falls Campus for instructions and more information.

As a reminder, the CDC recommends the following actions to help prevent the spread of respiratory diseases such as the Flu and COVID-19:  

• Avoid contact with sick people.
• Avoid touching your eyes, nose, or mouth with unwashed hands.
• Clean your hands often by washing with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. If soap and water is not available, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer that contains at least 60% alcohol.

Please see our coronavirus website at www.Jefferson.edu/coronavirus for more information and FAQs, as well as the CDC website for travel guidelines and details about this coronavirus.

If you need answers to more specific questions, please email Peter Miller, Senior Associate Provost for Academic Enterprise Initiatives, at peter.miller@jefferson.edu.

To Thomas Jefferson University Faculty, Staff and Students

SENT ON BEHALF OF

Stephen K. Klasko, MD, MBA
President, Thomas Jefferson University

Mark L. Tykocinski, MD
Provost, Thomas Jefferson University

SUBJECT: 03-03-2020 COVID-19 University Update

First, it is important to remind all of you that while COVID-19 is a serious situation, most people who contract the virus only experience mild symptoms. People who are susceptible to more severe symptoms are older adults and those with underlying medical conditions. Again, as with other viruses of this type, you should focus on taking the necessary steps to maintain your health, including washing your hands frequently.

Second, this morning, we made the decision to suspend or postpone faculty-led short course to France and group travel to Spain scheduled for this upcoming spring break. While there have not been any elevated warnings from the CDC related to those countries, we are acting with caution given a reported rise in cases in those areas.

Students who are participating in these study away short courses or group travel coordinated by the University will not be held responsible for program or travel-related costs due to the program’s cancellation or postponement. In the coming weeks, we will make a determination as to whether or not we will postpone these programs to the summer.

www.Jefferson.edu/coronavirus.

To the Thomas Jefferson University Faculty, Staff and Students

SENT ON BEHALF OF

Stephen K. Klasko, MD, MBA
President, Thomas Jefferson University

Mark L. Tykocinski, MD
Provost, Thomas Jefferson University

Subject: 03-02-2020 COVID-19 Update

Good morning. It is important that all of us are informed about the rapidly evolving COVID-19 situation and Jefferson’s response. We will be providing you with updates through regular emails and on the COVID-19 information webpage at www.Jefferson.edu/coronavirus. 

Thomas Jefferson University currently has 15 undergraduate students studying at the UArk Rome Center this semester. Over the weekend, the University of Arkansas, which operates the UArk Rome Center, made the decision to suspend all academic operations at that location due to the CDC’s decision to raise the travel warning to a Level 3 – Reconsider Travel – for all of Italy. We informed our students that we are also closing our in-person academic operations in Rome at the Rome Center for the remainder of the spring 2020 semester.  In addition, we made a decision at the end of last week to cancel an upcoming faculty-led short course to Japan.

Our Office of International Affairs and our Study Away Office, in particular, have been working closely with the students and their families to assist them in arranging travel back to the U.S. as soon as possible. We have instructed our students to follow the CDC and state guidelines to be screened by their family physician upon returning home and self-quarantine at home for 14 days before returning to campus. Once their self-quarantine is completed, they also must contact the Student Health Center by phone (215.951.2986) for additional clearance before returning to campus. Please note that all faculty, staff and students who are abroad and who meet the CDC criteria must contact the Student Health Center in East Falls or Jefferson Occupational Health Network (JOHN) in Center City (215.955.6835) for clearances before returning to campus.

We also have students who are studying away in other locations around the world or who are preparing to travel to countries that have not been determined to be at risk at this point. However, we are continually monitoring those risks and the CDC guidelines, and we expect to make decisions in the coming days as changes in the COVID-19 situation warrant. Our top priority is the safety and welfare of all members of the Jefferson community. This is why we canceled the faculty-led Japan trip and have instructed students in Rome to return to the U.S. We also have authorized the necessary support and resources to help our students transition back to campus. 

As a reminder to all members of the Jefferson Community:

Travel

• If you are an East Falls Campus student who is currently participating or planning to participate in a study away program and have questions, please contact Dr. Madeleine Wilcox at madeleine.wilcox@jefferson.edu. For questions related to programs and travel originating from our Center City Campus, students should contact the Office of International Affairs (oia@jefferson.edu). 
• Faculty and/or staff who are scheduled for University-sanctioned travel, please reconfirm with your supervisor that your trip is still approved given the current and evolving circumstances. You must also register your travel plans with the Office of International Affairs (oia@jefferson.edu) so we know your whereabouts and are able to assist you, if needed.

Wellness

• As always, but particularly during times of a global health issue, it is important that you take the steps necessary to maintain your health.
• Wash your hands frequently,
• get a flu vaccine,
• avoid sharing utensils,
• cover any coughs and sneezes with a tissue or your sleeve,
• get enough rest, and
• stay home if you are not feeling well.

We ask that you pay attention to this evolving public health issue and keep informed of the changing guidelines issued by local, state, and federal health agencies. We also will continue to keep you updated.

Thank you.

TO ALL UNIVERSITY FACULTY AND STAFF

SENT ON BEHALF OF:

Mark Tykocinski, MD
Provost
Thomas Jefferson University

Kathleen Gallagher
EVP, Chief Operating Officer
Thomas Jefferson University

Subject: Thomas Jefferson University Updates – Coronavirus Updates as of 2/27/20

I wanted to provide the University community with an update on the novel coronavirus (COVID-19) and our response. We are carefully monitoring this situation and working with Dr. Jonathan Gleason, Chief Quality Officer for Jefferson Health, the Jefferson Center for Global Engagement, Study Away Office, and local and federal health officials.  Earlier today you received an email from Dr. Gleason that outlines what we currently know about the virus and how we are responding to an evolving situation. It also included detail about a myJeffHub Coronavirus site that is being created and updated regularly for internal use.

Faculty, staff and students who have questions about travel abroad should consult the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) for guidance on travel restrictions. The CDC has recently issued travel warnings and alerts for China, South Korea, Iran, Italy, and Japan, which include avoiding all non-essential travel to mainland China and South Korea.

If you are planning an international trip on behalf of Jefferson you must reconfirm your travel plans with your supervisor and notify the Office of International Affairs (oia@jefferson.edu).

We will continue to follow CDC travel guidelines. At this time, the CDC has issued a Warning Level 3 for China and South Korea and recommends that travelers avoid all nonessential travel to these countries.  The CDC has also issued an Alert Level 2 for Iran, Italy and Japan and recommends that older adults and those with chronic medical conditions consider postponing travel to these countries. If the CDC raises a warning to level 3 for any country, we will restrict University-affiliated travel to that country or region. We will adopt further guidelines for travelers from other countries as recommended.

Anyone returning from international travel must reach out to their local Jefferson Occupational Health Network (JOHN) 215-955-6835 or the Student Health Services East Falls 215-951-2986 prior to returning to the University. During off hours you may contact our JeffConnect telehealth service.

While this is a very serious global health situation and has caused deaths, most cases of the novel coronavirus are mild or less severe. However, it is important that you take the steps to stay healthy. Wash your hands frequently, get a flu vaccine, avoid sharing utensils, cover any coughs and sneezes with a tissue or your sleeve, and stay home if you are not feeling well.

Finally, we are in the process of creating a webpage on Jefferson.edu that will contain updates, links to external resources, and answers to Frequently Asked Questions to keep our students and parents updated on decisions the University may make regarding study away programs, etc. 

This is rapidly evolving situation and we will continue to update you and let you know when the webpage is live. 

Thank you for your cooperation.

To all Thomas Jefferson University Students Studying in Rome:

As you may know by now, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the U.S. Department of State elevated their travel warnings to Level 3 for all of Italy. That means the CDC has advised against all nonessential travel to Italy. In addition, our host institution in Rome, the University of Arkansas, has made the difficult decision to suspend all academic operations in Rome for the foreseeable future. As a result, we regret to advise you that Thomas Jefferson University’s program in Rome will close our in-person academic operations for the remainder of the spring 2020 semester.

Some students have requested the ability to stay in Europe and finish course work online. Given the rapidly evolving COVID-19 situation and to prevent the least disruption of your academic progress, you need to return to the United States. Gather your belongings, make arrangements to leave Italy, and return home. Both the president, Dr. Steve Klasko, and the provost, Dr. Mark Tykocinski, have authorized us to provide you with support and resources to help you in this transition and welcome you back to campus.

In addition to contacting the Rome Center and completing their form, we will be asking you to complete a questionnaire about your return in the Study Away portal that will be open tomorrow so we can be ready to assist you. Please complete the form on the portal by Tuesday, March 3 so that we know your travel itinerary and housing plans. 

Students who have booked their travel as part of the Rome Semester Group flight should be in contact with the Study Away office for assistance with rebooking. If you are in need of housing, the University can provide this in our Martin Residence Hall, located at 201 S 11th St, Philadelphia, PA 19107. While Martin is on the Center City Campus, we will assist you with transportation between the campuses. More information about Martin Hall will be forthcoming.

This situation requires your immediate attention, and we are here to help you. Please contact me at madeleine.wilcox@jefferson.edu if you need anything. We know you will have many questions that are not covered here, and we will continue to update you as more information becomes available. The Rome Center staff and Study Away office will be available over the weekend to assist.

You should be aware that as you travel, you may encounter heightened screening at airports and borders. Please leave yourself extra time so that you don’t miss your flights.

Jefferson will coordinate with UARK to offer remote Jefferson-based classes so students will not interrupt their course of study. We will send you more details about how this will work in the coming days.

We realize that this may be disappointing to you, but your safety and welfare are our top priority. We must follow the guidelines as outlined in the Study Away Handbook, as well as federal, state and university policies. We look forward to hearing from you and helping you on your way home and the completion of your semester.

Sincerely,

Madeleine Wilcox, PhD
Director, International and Domestic Study Away Programs
Office of Global Education and Initiatives

Matt Dane Baker, PA-C, D.H.Sc.
Senior Vice Provost, Academic Affairs

TO ALL UNIVERSITY FACULTY AND STAFF

SENT ON BEHALF OF:

Mark Tykocinski, MD
Provost
Thomas Jefferson University

Kathleen Gallagher
EVP, Chief Operating Officer
Thomas Jefferson University

Subject: Thomas Jefferson University Updates – Coronavirus Updates as of 2/27/20

I wanted to provide the University community with an update on the novel coronavirus (COVID-19) and our response. We are carefully monitoring this situation and working with Dr. Jonathan Gleason, Chief Quality Officer for Jefferson Health, the Jefferson Center for Global Engagement, Study Away Office, and local and federal health officials.  Earlier today you received an email from Dr. Gleason that outlines what we currently know about the virus and how we are responding to an evolving situation. It also included detail about a myJeffHub Coronavirus site that is being created and updated regularly for internal use.

Faculty, staff and students who have questions about travel abroad should consult the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) for guidance on travel restrictions. The CDC has recently issued travel warnings and alerts for China, South Korea, Iran, Italy, and Japan, which include avoiding all non-essential travel to mainland China and South Korea.

If you are planning an international trip on behalf of Jefferson you must reconfirm your travel plans with your supervisor and notify the Office of International Affairs (oia@jefferson.edu).

We will continue to follow CDC travel guidelines. At this time, the CDC has issued a Warning Level 3 for China and South Korea and recommends that travelers avoid all nonessential travel to these countries.  The CDC has also issued an Alert Level 2 for Iran, Italy and Japan and recommends that older adults and those with chronic medical conditions consider postponing travel to these countries. If the CDC raises a warning to level 3 for any country, we will restrict University-affiliated travel to that country or region. We will adopt further guidelines for travelers from other countries as recommended.

Anyone returning from international travel must reach out to their local Jefferson Occupational Health Network (JOHN) 215-955-6835 or the Student Health Services East Falls 215-951-2986 prior to returning to the University. During off hours you may contact our JeffConnect telehealth service.

While this is a very serious global health situation and has caused deaths, most cases of the novel coronavirus are mild or less severe. However, it is important that you take the steps to stay healthy. Wash your hands frequently, get a flu vaccine, avoid sharing utensils, cover any coughs and sneezes with a tissue or your sleeve, and stay home if you are not feeling well.

Finally, we are in the process of creating a webpage on Jefferson.edu that will contain updates, links to external resources, and answers to Frequently Asked Questions to keep our students and parents updated on decisions the University may make regarding study away programs, etc. 

This is rapidly evolving situation and we will continue to update you and let you know when the webpage is live. 

Thank you for your cooperation.

To All Jefferson Faculty, Staff and Students:

SENT ON BEHALF OF:

Mark L. Tykocinski, MD
Provost and Executive Vice President for Academic Affairs,
Thomas Jefferson University
The Anthony F. and Gertrude M. DePalma Dean,
Sidney Kimmel Medical College at Thomas Jefferson University

Ellen M. O’Connor, MD, FACP
Medical Director, Medical Review Officer
Jefferson Occupational Health Network (JOHN)

As a follow up to the email distributed last week regarding the Coronavirus, please be aware that the State Department has changed their travel warning for China to a level 4 (do not travel).

More information and the full travel warning from the state department can be found here: https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/traveladvisories/traveladvisories/china-travel-advisory.html     

Advice from the CDC can be found here https://wwwnc.cdc.gov/travel/destinations/traveler/none/china

Please abide by the State Department and CDC advisories and guidelines. Please note that travelers should be prepared for travel restrictions to be put into effect with little or no advance notice and should be aware that commercial carriers have reduced or suspended routes to and from China.

Faculty, staff or students should immediately contact the Jefferson Occupational Health Network (JOHN) in Center City at 215.955.6835 or Health Services on the East Falls Campus at 215.951.2986 for any of the reasons below:

• If you have been exposed to others with suspected nCoV infection.
• If you are returning from China.

If you have any other questions or health concerns, please call:

JOHN (Center City) - 215.955.6835

East Falls Health Services - 215.951.2986

Thank you.

TO ALL UNIVERSITY FACULTY, STAFF AND STUDENTS

SENT ON BEHALF OF:

Mark L. Tykocinski, MD
Provost and Executive Vice President for Academic Affairs,
Thomas Jefferson University
The Anthony F. and Gertrude M. DePalma Dean,
Sidney Kimmel Medical College at Thomas Jefferson University

Ellen M. O’Connor, MD, FACP
Medical Director, Medical Review Officer
Jefferson Occupational Health Network (JOHN)

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) is monitoring an outbreak of a novel coronavirus (nCoV) initially identified in Wuhan City, China. A coronavirus is a part of a family of viruses that causes varying levels of respiratory illness.

Currently there are several confirmed cases of nCoV in the U.S. There are hundreds of confirmed cases and over 20 deaths worldwide currently attributed to this novel coronavirus. There have been no confirmed cases in our region, and there are ongoing investigations to learn more. This is a rapidly evolving situation and information will be updated as it becomes available.

There is no vaccine for the nCoV. To protect yourself, the guidance includes many of the same recommendations to prevent infection with other respiratory viruses, i.e. influenza. They include:

• Washing your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. If soap and water are not available, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer.
• Avoiding touching your eyes, nose, and mouth with unwashed hands.
• Avoiding close contact with people who are sick.
• Staying home or in your dormitory room when you are sick.
• Covering your cough or sneezing into a tissue, then throwing the tissue in the trash.
• Cleaning and disinfecting frequently touched objects and surfaces.

We recommend that you follow the State Department guidelines, which currently advise people not to travel to Hubei province. If you are returning from international travel involving destinations where nCoV has been reported and have symptoms of a respiratory illness, you should seek medical assistance through your primary care physician or through student health services. Clearance must be obtained through Jefferson Occupational Health Network (JOHN) on the Center City campus or East Falls Health Services, prior to a return to work or school.

Influenza activity on Jefferson campuses remains high. JOHN and East Falls Health Services continue to evaluate and treat students with influenza and influenza-like illness. Influenza vaccination remains the best preventive measure to protect yourself from the flu.  JOHN and East Falls Health Services will continue to offer the vaccination free of charge until May 1. The offices may be contacted as follows:

JOHN (Center City) - 215-955-6835

East Falls Health Services - 215-951-2986

Thomas Jefferson University
Clinical Precepting Guidelines for COVID-19
March 9, 2020

Jefferson is closely monitoring the evolving situation related to COVID-19 in order to evaluate the outbreak’s impact on our students, faculty and staff. The health and safety of the Jefferson community is of the utmost importance to us.

An excellent source of updated information can be found at https://www.jefferson.edu/coronavirus

Based on CDC recommendations, the clinical enterprise seeks to develop focused teams to care for individuals with suspected or confirmed COVID-19 infection, thereby limiting potential exposures to healthcare workers and risk of further transmission. Students are not part of these dedicated teams. Therefore, our goal is to avoid student contact with individuals suspected to be, or confirmed to be infected with COVID-19.

Students who are ill should not be involved in the care of patients and should be told to go home and report an excused absence.

Inpatients and ICUs: Students are not to be assigned to cases where there is suspicion or confirmation of COVID-19 infection.

Outpatients: Patients should be screened by the ambulatory site for COVID-19 risk and concerning symptoms. This can be done by telephone prior to the visit or by office staff prior to students being involved in the clinical care of the patient. Students are not to be in contact with patients deemed high risk for COVID-19 (i.e, fever, cough, shortness of breath, recent travel to a high-risk location per CDC guidelines).

Emergency Department: Prior to assigning a patient for student evaluation, the patient should be screened by the precepting faculty member. Students are not to be in contact with patients deemed high risk for COVID-19 (i.e, fever, cough, shortness of breath, recent travel to a high-risk location per CDC guidelines).

Exposures: the CDC defines exposures as high, medium and low risk. Depending on the degree of exposure risk, recommended monitoring can be assigned to either active monitoring or self-monitoring with delegated supervision. Any student concerned regarding a possible exposure should report immediately to Jefferson Occupational Health Network (JOHN) by phone (215-955-6835) or JeffConnect telehealth.