UIC SAC Newsletter January 2022

1

"A support for Civil Service Employees"

January 2022 Newsletter PDF

In This Issue Heading link

  • SAC PD

    Learn more professional development opportunities.

  • Masking Protocols

    Learn about the new masking standards.

  • Vaccine Ingredients

    Learn about what is inside the vaccine.

COVID-19 Vaccine Boosters Heading link

All faculty and staff are now required to receive the COVID-19 booster shot as soon as they are eligible. This will provide the maximum amount of protection to our UIC community as we return to campus for the Spring 2022 semester. UI Health employees will receive separate guidance from the leadership of UI Health.

This mandate follows the increasing COVID-19 cases, Omicron variant, and new CDC guidelines. Evidence has shown that being fully vaccinated along with being boosted is the most effective way at preventing infections from developing into serious illness. You can upload proof of your booster on UIC Healthcheck.

There are some exceptions to this requirement, similar to the vaccine. If you are exempt from the vaccine, then the exemption will be extended to your booster; however, testing twice a week will still be required. Temporary exemptions are also given to those who have had COVID-19 in the last 90 days. You will be required to receive the booster 90 days after your infection.

2022 Masking Protocols Heading link

Masks are still one of the best ways to defend against COVID-19 transmission. It will continue to be required indoors across campus. It is highly recommended to double mask considering the new Omicron variant, as it provides a snugger fit. Two-layer cloth, KN95, and procedural masks are acceptable; however, neck gaiters, single-play masks, and masks with exhaust valves are not.

The collective effort of the entire UIC community will aid in keeping everyone safe and healthy. The current protocols are subject to change as the university continues to monitor the situation.

Pfizer Vaccine Ingredients Heading link

Despite the majority of our campus already being fully vaccinated, some may find the following ingredient information regarding the Pfizer vaccine/booster helpful.

  • mRNA,
  • lipids, ((4-hydroxybutyl)azanediyl)bis(hexane-6,1-diyl)bis(2-hexyldecanoate), 2-[(polyethylene glycol)-2000]-N,N-ditetradecylacetamide, 1,2-Distearoyl-sn-glycero-3-phosphocholine, and cholesterol),
  • potassium chloride,
  • monobasic potassium phosphate,
  • sodium chloride,
  • dibasic sodium phosphate dihydrate, and
  • sucrose.

SAC Professional Development Heading link

The SAC Professional Development Program is an educational program at UIC that will provide funding to Civil Service Employees.

It allows employees to build their knowledge and skills related to their current job responsibilities.

All participants will work with their supervisors and home units to select learning opportunities that can enhance their job performance.

Up to $500 of funding is offered per employee.

Applications are due Monday, February 7th, 2022 at 5PM and can be found on sac.uic.edu.