Covid-19 Important information on Omicron variant

A message from Stephen Dudderidge, Registrar and Secretary emailed 29 November 2021 to all students.

In response to the emergence of the Omicron variant of Covid, the government has announced the introduction of additional temporary and precautionary measures in England, and I am writing to update you on what this means for the University.

From Tuesday 30 November, the wearing of face coverings will be mandatory whilst in transit in University buildings, in Students’ Union shops and the UB1 shuttle bus (plus all public transport). This applies to all students, staff and visitors.

The wearing of face coverings in some teaching sessions is already required. We would also now strongly encourage everyone to wear face coverings in all teaching settings.

It is also important that we all continue to take personal steps to manage the impact of Covid:

• If you haven’t already been vaccinated, please do consider getting a vaccination. If you think that you may be eligible for a booster you can read full details and book your appointment.
• Continue to play your part through regular asymptomatic testing. Arrange to have a test kit delivered to your home address, or pick up a kit from Eastbourne Hillbrow Sports Centre, Falmer Sports Centre, Cockcroft and Grand Parade Caretakers’ desks and from libraries. And don’t forget to report your results online selecting the reference ‘University of Brighton’ from the list of education providers.
• Follow the guidance about ventilation on campus.
• Wash or sanitise your hands frequently and cover your nose and mouth when you cough and sneeze.
• Take a PCR test if experiencing symptoms of Covid. Remember that there is a mobile PCR test centre at Moulsecoomb until Thursday 23 December. To attend, please book a test slot.
• Please respect those staff and students wearing red wristbands and lanyards that indicates that they wish to remain socially distant.

We will continue to update students and staff as and when there are any further developments, and particularly as we review and reflect on the changing guidance regarding international travel.