My Positive COVID-19 Test

January 11, 2021
 
Members of the Rutgers Community,

I am writing to let you know that on Sunday I learned that I have tested positive for the COVID-19 virus. Despite my strictly following all appropriate health hygiene advice, it appears that I contracted the virus at my home. Even with an initial negative test result, I have been in strict self-quarantine since being made aware of exposure this past Wednesday. Everyone with whom I had contact since my own exposure has been notified and tested.

I am fortunate, my symptoms are minimal and like a common cold. I will continue to self-quarantine and closely monitor any health changes. I will be paring back my schedule for the next ten days in order to get proper rest at home and return to full health.

There can be no doubt that defeating this virus will require the adequate and efficient distribution of vaccines like those already in use that are proven to be 95 percent effective. In the meantime, we all have a responsibility to strictly adhere to medical and public health guidance to:

• Wash your hands frequently
• Wear a mask in public places, indoor and outdoor
• Watch your distance – stay at least six feet apart
• Avoid unnecessary trips
• Get tested for COVID-19 if you have been exposed to someone with the virus
• Get tested weekly if you are regularly scheduled to be on campus as a way to protect the people around you
• Stay home if you are unwell
• Sign up for a vaccination through the state registry, and get the vaccine once it is available to you 
• Get a flu shot

This list isn’t exhaustive, and following it doesn’t provide ironclad protection, but it is the best we can do at the moment and we absolutely have to follow that advice until widespread vaccine distribution is achieved, certainly several months from now.

Thank you for your support and for your continued commitment to defeating the coronavirus.

Sincerely,
 
Jonathan Holloway
President and University Professor