It is easy to think that we have now left the pandemic behind, but the health authorities continue to encourage us to be vigilant. There are a couple of new variants floating around and it is good be as careful as possible. We remain concerned to keep each other safe.
In second semester much will remain as it did in first semester. We are still requiring the following:
- if you test positive via either a PCR or RAT test, please stay at home, do not come to College and please inform John Downward that you are COVID positive;
- if you are unwell please remain at home and not come to College;
- we are not mandating face masks, but you should feel free to wear them and consider wearing them if those around you are at all concerned
However, there will be one significant difference in second semester. We are no longer requiring you to stay at home if a member of your family tests positive and yet you continue to test negative. The government guidelines suggest you should still study or work at home for the duration of your family member’s confinement ‘if at all practicable’, but they do not mandate this. We have decided that if you are a family contact, you may come to College and participate as normal, with the following caveats:
- Take a RAT daily to ensure you test negative;
- Wear a mask indoors;
- Avoid crowded areas whenever possible;
- Do not enter the dining room, or eat near other people indoors.
Furthermore, given that the current flu strain(s) are particularly virulent, we recommend that you consider getting a flu shot. The NSW government is providing these free of charge from your local pharmacy or GP until the 17th of July.
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