Omicron, recent research shows, is now the dominant variant of COVID-19 in Massachusetts. We are writing today to let you know that recent tests conducted at our Public Health Promotion Center (PHPC) are also identifying Omicron in positive COVID-19 tests.
While not unexpected, we believe this development is important to share with our community. The rapid spread of Omicron underscores the importance of following best public health practices during the university’s winter break, including use of face coverings inside, testing and vaccinations.
Vaccines remain the best public health tool available to protect you from COVID-19. All UMass Amherst students, faculty and staff are required to receive a COVID-19 vaccine booster shot. Boosters ensure long-lasting protection against waning immunity. The emergence of the Omicron variant further emphasizes the importance of vaccination and booster doses.
You can make an appointment to get a vaccine booster by identifying a location through the Massachusetts COVID-19 vaccine finder or Vaccines.gov . The PHPC vaccine clinic will reopen in the new year, so please check the UMass vaccine website for future available dates.
Testing is free at the PHPC and is also available at local pharmacies and other locations. During winter break PHPC’s testing hours are modified, so please check the UMass testing website for our hours. Testing resumes at the PHPC on Jan. 3.
The latest COVID-19 testing data from Dec. 15 to 21 shows 65 new positive cases. The university’s cumulative positivity rate is 1.37%, down slightly from last week’s rate of 1.60%. The state’s seven-day positivity rate is 7.60%.
Cases are of short duration resulting in mild-to-moderate illness, and there are no current hospitalizations. Details about case counts and vaccinations can be found on the university’s COVID-19 Dashboard .
Stay well and remain safe during the holiday break.
Co-Directors of the Public Health Promotion Center (PHPC)
Ann Becker, Public Health Director Jeffrey Hescock, Executive Director of Environmental Health and Safety
Call: 413-545-0444 scoop@admin.umass.edu