Operation of Educational Establishments during the Pandemic: Protocols & Procedures (Fourth Release 4.0)

This document outlines the protocols, requirements, and precautionary measures that all educational establishments in the UAE should follow in order to achieve a safe, healthy, and learning-stimulating learning environment when educational establishments are opened during the outbreak of the Covid-19 pandemic. This Document relies on the general framework adopted by the UAE for the re-opening of educational establishments at the time of the outbreak of Covid-19 pandemic.

This Document may be changed or amended without notice, as directed by the authorities concerned or the relevant authorities of the Government or the Emirate, at any time, depending on developments.

English Version
Arabic Version

GUIDELINES FOR MANAGEMENT OF COVID-19

Guidelines for Management of Covid-19 in Educational and Academic Settings

AUD Faculty Documents and Resources

Faculty Guidelines for Online Classes - Spring 2021
General Classroom Guidelines during COVID - Spring 2021
Guidelines for HyFlex classes - Spring 2021
FAQs for Faculty - Spring 2021

For Students

STUDENT GUIDELINES & DOCUMENTS
COVID-19 Pledge
Remote Learning and Examination Guidelines (Students)
Guidelines for HyFlex Classes - Spring 2021
Library Guide

ONLINE TEACHING PLATFORM INSTRUCTIONS
At AUD we use Blackboard for Online Learning. Click Here

REGISTRAR OFFICE
The Registrar's Office is closed to in-person visitors due to the COVID-19 Pandemic. You may pick-up documents from the AUD Collection Point next to the parking entrance, opposite the main gate. Please schedule your pickup date HERE.

SPRING 2021 RETURN TO CAMPUS WEBINAR

COVID-19 VACCINE AWARENESS GUIDE
December 2020

PRE-VACCINATION INFORMATION FOR THE COVID-19 VACCINE

The importance of the vaccine
The vaccine is a safe and effective way to protect individuals from serious preventable diseases as it stimulates the body to build resistance to a particular infection and strengthens the immune system by training it to form antibodies.

How do vaccines work?
• Vaccines stimulate the immune system without making the person ill.
• Vaccines work in different ways but they all provide protection against the disease.

For example:
When injecting the vaccine (which contains protein from the virus) the immune system recognises it as a foreign body and it starts producing antibodies. A person's immune system forms a memory against these foreign bodies. The immune system starts fighting the virus when it enters the body again.

Why should I take the vaccine?
The vaccine is currently the best, safest and most effective method to control the COVID-19 pandemic and stop it from spreading, to protect yourself and others.

Target Group
It is preferable to give the vaccine to the largest percentage of society in order to achieve sufficient immunity required to prevent the spread of the virus.

Priority is given to people who are most at risk of infection or people at risk of serious complications from infection and then to the remaining segments of society.

1. Individuals most likely to develop complications of the disease:
• Senior citizens and residents over 60 years
• People with chronic diseases (diabetes, cardiovascular diseases, liver and kidney diseases, hypertension, obesity and people with a BMI of 35 or more.)
• People of determination

2. People in occupations with the highest COVID-19 risk
• Frontliners in the public and private sector
• Employees in sensitive and vital positions

3. Community members over 18 years

Vaccine excluded groups
• Nursing mothers
• Pregnant women
• Children below 18 years
• People with an immunodeficiency disease
• Those who are allergic to any vaccine, food, medicine or substance OR those who carry a self-injectable adrenaline
• Women planning to get pregnant in the near future (3 months from the date of taking the vaccine)

Note:
You must inform your doctor of all the medications you are taking and those you are allergic to.

Vaccine Safety and Efficacy
All vaccines are subject to adequate testing and go through several stages (including clinical stages) before they are approved for use.

The country has selected these vaccines on a scientific basis and has made sure to provide vaccines that meet all safety requirements.


Is COVID-19 vaccination optional or compulsory?
COVID-19 vaccination is optional.

What is the journey of receiving the vaccine?
• Register via the DHA app or call 800 342
• You will receive a text message with instructions and tips (if you meet the criteria)
• The centre will check your vital signs when you arrive
• Make sure you read the consent form
• You will receive the first dose of the vaccine
• You need to wait at the clinic for 20 minutes after receiving the vaccine

You will receive an SMS 15 minutes after you have finished your vaccination.
The SMS will provide details of your vaccination certificate and the appointment date and time for the second dose of the vaccination. (Second dose is after 21 days)

PRE-VACCINATION CHECKLIST FOR COVID-19 VACCINES

Important information you should tell your doctor before taking the vaccine
• If you have any symptoms such as fever
• If you have a medical history such as diabetes, cardiovascular disease, etc.
• If you are allergic to any vaccine, food, medicine or substance OR if you carry a self-injectable adrenaline.
• If you are pregnant or you are planning to get pregnant within the next 3 months
• If you are breastfeeding
• If you suffer from an immunodeficiency disease or have a weak immunity.

Taking the vaccine and the number of doses required
• Vaccination comprises of two doses, taken separately. The gap between the two doses is 21 days.
• The vaccine is given in the muscle of the upper arm.
• For the vaccine to be effective, it is necessary to adhere to the appointment of the second dose as per the stipulated time.
• It takes one week after the second dose of the vaccine to be effective and provide you with the necessary immunity.

Note: Even after taking both the doses for the vaccine, it is important to continue to take all precautionary measures including wearing a facemask.

Do I need to take the COVID-19 vaccine only once in my lifetime?
It is too early to determine how long this vaccine will be effective for and the duration of its effectiveness. We will provide more information in this regard once it is available.

POST-VACCINE

What to expect after your COVID-19 vaccination?
It is normal to have minor side effects during the first week after receiving the vaccine and these symptoms are common when taking any type of vaccine.

Side effects:
• Fatigue and headaches
• Fever
• Pain, swelling or redness at the injection-site
• Joint pain
• Vomiting and diarrhea
• Shivering
• Muscle pain

What do I do if there are side effects?
• Take a Paracetamol when you experience mild and moderate side effects.
• Use a cold compress to relieve pain at the injection site.
• If you have mild and moderate symptoms that persist for longer or severe symptoms, despite the use of Paracetamol, you should adhere to the following:
• Book a telemedicine appointment with the Doctor For Every Citizen initiative:
You can book this appointment through the following methods:
1. By using the DHA app
2. By contacting the DHA’s toll-free number 800 342 (Choose “COVID-19 Vaccine” from the main list and then click on number 3)
• For emergencies, head to the nearest health centre or hospital.

GENERAL TIPS AFTER TAKING THE VACCINE

• Be aware of any side effects.
• Comply with the instructions issued by your doctor.
• Make sure you do not skip or delay your appointment for the second dose of the vaccination. This is important for the vaccine to be effective and to provide you with the necessary protection.

Precautionary measures
• The vaccine is one of the most effective ways to fight COVID-19 but it is not the only way.
• Everyone should take precautionary measures to combat COVID-19 even after vaccination, such as physical distancing, keeping your hands clean and wearing a facemask.

FREQUENTLY-ASKED QUESTIONS

Can a person who was infected with COVID-19 take the vaccine?
Yes, but the person needs to take the vaccination after three months from the date of infection of the virus.
Note: The body develops antibodies after getting COVID-19; therefore, the chances for reinfection are very low.

If someone has taken a vaccination other than the COVID-19 vaccine, is it safe to take the COVID-19 vaccine?
Example: I took an influenza vaccine, is it safe to take the COVID-19 vaccine?
Yes, but you need to wait for more than four weeks after the influenza vaccine to be able to take the COVID-19 vaccine.

I took a different COVID-19 vaccine recently, is it safe to take another COVID-19 vaccine?
NO. It is NOT safe to take a different type of COVID-19 vaccination.

I might not be in Dubai to take my second dose of the COVID-19 vaccine. Can I reschedule my vaccine for another day?
It is strongly recommended to complete the vaccine course and abide by the scheduled time to ensure that you receive the maximum benefit of the vaccine.

Am I exempt from taking a PCR test for travel purposes or pre-surgical procedures in Dubai if I have taken the COVID-19 vaccine?
No, you are not exempt. For the time being, everyone is required to follow policies and regulations that are related to COVID-19 testing and screening in Dubai.

Can I stop wearing a facemask after taking the COVID-19 vaccine?
No, you still need to keep wearing the facemask and you must follow all precautionary measures unless there is another official instruction or announcement from the health authorities in this regard.

Do people need to keep following COVID-19 precautionary measures after completing the COVID-19 vaccination doses?
Yes, all precautionary measures need to be followed even after taking the COVID-19 vaccine until you receive any instruction or announcement from the health authorities in this regard.

Is it safe for people with chronic diseases to take the vaccine?
Yes, the vaccine is safe, effective and indicated for people with chronic diseases as they are at a higher risk of developing COVID-19 complications. Your family physician will inform you if you have any specific contraindication to take the vaccine.

I am on multiple medications, is it safe to take the COVID-19 vaccine?
Your family physician will guide you on the safety of taking the vaccine. Provide your physician with your detailed medical history and list of medications. In addition, please make sure you inform your physician if
you are allergic to any drugs or have any other allergies.

What is the cost of the COVID-19 vaccine?
It is free-of-cost.

Is vaccination voluntary or compulsory in Dubai?
It is voluntarily, however, there must be NO contraindications, in order to be vaccinated.
Your family physician will inform you if you are eligible for the vaccine.
You must provide your medical history, list of medications and details of allergies to drugs or any other allergies.

CLICK HERE TO VIEW THE PDF VERSION

• - Employee Consideration click here. 8/10/2020
• - The 2020 Graduation Ceremony has been postponed and will be revisited and scheduled for a later date. 7/4/2020
• - The AUD Student Gala for the graduating class of 2020 has been cancelled. 30/3/2020
• - All AUD departments are working remotely and can be reached by phone or email. 25/3/2020
• - Student learning has been extended until the end of June 2020 as per the Ministry of Education's announcement. 25/03/2020
• - Installation of thermal camera to monitor body temperature of ALL employees on campus. 23/03/20
• - Launch of online academic advising for students through one on one video conferencing sessions. 22/03/20
• - All administrative departments can be reached by phone or email.
• - Meetings are currently not being scheduled and external visitors cannot be granted access to the campus.
• - A thorough sanitization and deep clean of the university, including the dorms, all public spaces, classrooms and labs was conducted over Spring Break.
• - All community members are required to stay at home self-quarantine if any member of their household is suffering from COVID-19 related symptoms or has returned from a recently affected area.
• - AUD is working closely with all the relevant local and international authorities to implement health, safety and hygiene best practices to curb and limit the spread of the virus.

 For any health concerns, please contact AUD Health Center
 Tel: 04-3183 200
 E: healthcenter@aud.edu

Health Center

The AUD Health Center has been extremely proactive in addressing the situation and educating our community on the precautionary and preventative measures that should be followed to minimize any contamination risks. This was conducted through a series of online, offline and peer to peer sessions since early January, based on guidelines from regional and international authorities including: The UAE Ministry of Health, Dubai Health Authority, Center for Disease Control and prevention (CDC) , World Health Organization (WHO) , along with the ongoing support of our partners, the American Hospital Dubai.

Several practical measures were additionally implemented from early January to increase hygiene and reduce exposure risk to the virus. These include:
- Launch of the online learning platforms for students to practice successful social distancing with no effect
- Installing many hand sanitizing stations across the university, including in the dorm rooms and common areas.
- Contacting all students, staff and faculty who have travelled to affected areas
- Cancelling all university trips, events, and student gatherings.
- Sealing off all common areas to avoid grouping.
- Assessment of all cleaning protocols and procedures to ensure they are effective to counter the nature of the virus
- Increase in frequency of cleaning all high touch point areas, including common areas, door knobs, light switches, and other.
- Distribution of leaflet and flyer with information about the virus and how to prevent spread and contamination.
- Internal travel declaration form created for all members of the AUD community (faculty, staff and students) to monitor travels to the most affected areas.

Timeline of the awareness campaign led by the Health Center on COVID-19:

March 17, 2020	A Healthy AUD, Updates Guidelines
March 15, 2020	Updates information, setups, and health facilities
March 5, 2020	Coronavirus, COVID-19 Awareness presentation to AUD Helpers
March 3, 2020	Pandemic response plan shared with President
March 1, 2020	Pre-Travel declaration form created, forwarded with Guidelines to AUD Community March 2, 2020
March 1, 2020	Virus prevention PP. Posters on Workers camp
March 1, 2020	Health and Safety Circular
March 1, 2020	Coronavirus Disease 2019 Information guidelines for Travel created, forwarded March 2, 2020
February 27, 2020	COVID-19 meeting with President, Provost, and Senior management
February 19, 2020	COVID-19 Awareness lecture and Workshop (AHD)
	Health Center Policy & Procedures Pandemic Response Plan, COVID-19, HCP 29
February 9, 2020	A Healthy AUD part 4, Novel Coronavirus Educational Guidelines
February 4, 2020	A Healthy AUD part 3, Measures and Prevention COVID-19, sent
	Health Center Policy & Procedures COVID-19, HCP 28
February 6, 2020	Facts and Measures to Prevent Spread of Respiratory Diseases created and distribute
February 6, 2020	9 Tips to Treat Colds and Flu the 'Natural' Way
January 30, 2020	A Healthy AUD, part 2 sent
January 29, 2020	A Healthy AUD (1st email) sent
January 29, 2020	Coronavirus Novel Posters, Leaflets and brochures

Community FAQ

• What is the current status of student learning?
  The university is following the recent measures announced by the Ministry of Education and KHDA, and will continue delivering classes via the online-learning platforms.
   
• I travelled during Spring Break and returned to the UAE. What steps I should take?
  If you checked out of the dorms and travelled abroad, you are required to self-quarantine for 14 days, and provide a report of clean health from a family doctor or healthcare practitioner at the end of your quarantine. This document cannot be obtained from the AUD Health Center. If you left the dorms but did not leave the UAE, you may return to the dorms but will be required to provide proof ( passport, etc.) that you did not travel internationally.
   
• Can I return directly to the residence halls if I travelled outside the United Arab Emirates?
  Upon arrival to the UAE, you should find alternative accommodation in which you can exercise self-quarantine for 14 days. By the end of this period, you should provide an official medical report of good health to the AUD Health Center. You should also present your passport with your arrival date. Once you are cleared by an AUD health practitioner following a 14-day quarantine, you can settle back into your dorm room.
   
• Can I return to the residence halls if I checked-out prior or during the Spring break but I remained in the UAE?
  If you were in the UAE during the Spring Break, you may return to the dorms but will be required to provide proof, (passport or other documents as requested) that you did not travel internationally.
   
• I am currently staying on campus. Can I check-in my parent or my friend as a visitor?
  No, AUD is upholding high vigilance of prevention measures and will not be accepting any external guests for dorms students and community members. Only students residing in the dorms will be allowed in and out.
   
• I have relatives/friends visiting from a country with reported cases, should I self-quarantine?
  Yes, faculty, staff and students who are in close contact with people returning from travel should share this information with the AUD Health Center and be advised on next steps accordingly.
   
• Can I return to the residence halls if I am coming from a country in which few or no cases of COVID-19 virus were identified?
  For the safety of the students and the community all residents who travelled outside the UAE should follow the recommendations that are enlisted in question (1) above, stating that anyone travelling outside of the UAE is requested to self-quarantine for 14 days with no symptoms of COVID-19 have been felt.
   
• Since the university is closed, how can I book for Fall 2020 housing?
  You may pay the housing deposit online and through bank transfer. Please inform our Finance office via this email: finance@aud.edu  that the amount paid is toward Fall’s housing.
   
• Are student events or gatherings still scheduled?
  All events or student gatherings, Clubs, Resident Assistants’ and others are suspended until further notice.
   
• I was planning on participating in a Study Abroad/Exchange Program next year, is that still possible?
  Study Abroad and Exchange applications are on hold until measures and precautions have significantly eased and the safety and welfare of our students is no longer deemed at risk.

• As of Saturday, the 5th of April, the UAE Government has announced a 24 hour national sanitization program for two weeks. UAE residents are asked not to leave their homes unless it is for getting essential groceries and medication, attending a medical appointment or for Covid-19 testing. A special authorization is required to leave the house for any of those reasons, that can be obtained through the following link: https://libguides.aud.edu/covid-19
• The Dubai Health Authority has launched a WhatsApp service to answer queries on Coronavirus. To access the 24/7 service, simply add 800342 to you phone contacts and send them "Hi" on WhatsApp.
• In line with the Ministry of Education’s announcement, and with our students’ health and safety at heart, the American University in Dubai will continue its online learning journey until the end of June. 30/4/2020

• What are the symptoms of COVID- 19?
  The most common symptoms of COVID-19 are fever, cough and shortness of breath.
   
• Could I have COVID-19?
  If you have a fever, cough or shortness of breath but have not been around anyone who you know has COVID-19, the likelihood that you have COVID19 is fairly low. If you do not have a high-risk condition (age 60 years or over, are pregnant, or have medical conditions) and your symptoms are mild, you do not need to be evaluated in person and do not need to be tested for COVID-19.
  
  If your symptoms are severe, have cough, fever ( 37.5°C or above), difficulty breathing, you have a high-risk condition, or you feel like you need medical care and are worried that you may have COVID-19, please make your way safely to the closest testing center to you as listed below.

• How can I reduce the risk of catching and spreading COVID 19?
  To reduce your risk of catching or spreading illness, stay home if you feel sick, even if your symptoms are mild (fever below 37.5°C, runny nose, cold or flu symptoms). Do not go to work, school or public places, and avoid public transportation.
   
• What are the facts and measures to protect myself:
  In general, the best way to help prevent spread of COVID-19 is to avoid contact with droplets or secretions of saliva, mucus and tears. Things that can help include the following:
  • Minimize close contact with persons who have symptoms of respiratory illness, such as coughing or sneezing.
  • Contain droplets that result from coughing and sneezing (following Respiratory Hygiene/Cough Etiquette: To cover the face with disposable napkins and discard properly).
  • Wash your hands regularly for 20 seconds. This is especially important after touching surfaces or objects that might be contaminated with respiratory droplets, or after touching persons who are ill with respiratory symptoms. Alcohol hand gels are an adequate substitute when soap and clean water are not readily available.
  • Take everyday preventive measures: Avoid sharing personal items such as eating or drinking utensils, toothbrushes, and towels. You should especially avoid sharing these items with sick persons.
  • Avoid animals (alive or dead) animal markets, and products that come from animals (such as uncooked meat.
  • Maintain a clean working/ living environment: Be mindful by trying to clean your area as often as possible to lessen the contaminants and avoid the spread of infection. Wipe up visible material with paper towels and dispose of used towels in a plastic garbage bag o Disinfect using any standard household disinfectant.
     
• If you are sick: Wear a facemask and gloves when you are around other people (e.g., sharing a room or vehicle) or pets and before you enter a healthcare provider’s office.
   
• Call the DHA Helpline on 800342
   
• If you suspect you have COVID 19, follow the steps as listed in the below chart. The AUD Health Center does not provide COVID 19 testing.
   
• If you are unwell and test positive for COVID 19, please be sure to inform the AUD Health Center.
   
• When and where to take a coronavirus test in the UAE
  The Dubai Health Authority (DHA) has issued specific instructions about when to seek medical help and opt for an appointment at any of the public or private hospitals and Primary Health Centers. An individual can now book a Covid-19 test at any health center or hospital provided he or she meets certain basic criteria for the test.
   
• Who should go?
   if and individual suffers from symptoms like fever, cough, cold, shortness of breath or experience difficulty in breathing, have a travel history to any of the countries of concern, listed by the Word Health Organization (WHO) or have been in contact with a suspected or confirmed Covid 19 patient, he or she can first practice isolation at home and schedule an appointment by calling the DHA helpline 800342.
   
• Documents required:
  Passport
  Emirates ID
  
  For any questions related to COVID-19, please check the link below from Dubai Health Authority DHA; https://www.dha.gov.ae/Covid19/Pages/home.aspx
   

In response to the recent surge of interest in students wishing to transfer to AUD from universities abroad, as well as inquires for new starts for the Fall 2021 semester, the AUD Admissions team has compiled a list of Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) to better acquaint you with our US & UAE accredited institution and the enrollment processes. 

1. I want to transfer from a university abroad, what do  I need to do?
   
   You will require the following documents:
   • - Official transcripts reflecting courses for which transfer credit is sought; attested by the Ministry of Education of the country in which the university is in operation. Attestation is not required from American-accredited universities.
   • - Completed Confirmation of University Records Form.
   • - Course syllabi for courses completed with a grade of “C” or above.
   • - COVID-19 Pledge
   • Please note that transferring credits is subject to evaluation and can only be evaluated after the submission of your application. All students must complete a minimum of 50% of their degree program in residency at AUD in order to qualify for an AUD degree.
   • Transfer students can apply online at https://applyonline.aud.edu  where all the required documents can be submitted/uploaded through the application - alternatively, you can email us your documents once you have submitted the application. 
   • Comprehensive information can be found on:  https://www.aud.edu/media/2845/everything-you-need-to-know-ug.pdf . You may also write to admissions@aud.edu   or call +971 4 318 3266 if you require additional clarification.
    
   
   
2. I am  applying to AUD/ transferring to AUD, do I need to submit my application and required documents in person?
   All necessary documents can be uploaded via the application https://applyonline.aud.edu/  or via email once the application is completed. 
    
3. Can  I do a campus tour?
   In line with Government directives, we are not at present conducting campus tours. However, we invite you to take the AUD Campus Virtual Tour, where you can explore our campus and facilities. Contact admissions@aud.edu
    
4. I want to learn more about a specific program, who can  I speak to?
   You can write to admissions@aud.edu  and one of our team will contact you as soon as possible.
   For information regarding AUD’s undergraduate programs click here
   For Graduate Programs click here  
   For EMBA  click here
    
5. I would like to speak to a faculty member of a school to learn more about the degree in detail, is that an option?
   Our recruitment team is happy to facilitate communication with a faculty member from your school or program of interest should you require specific course information. Contact admissions@aud.edu  and a member of our recruitment team will help you in answering all of your AUD related questions.
    
6. Can  I connect with an in-school student to discuss student life on campus?
   Our School Government Association, all exemplary Knights and community leaders would be happy in answering your questions. If you wish to speak to one of our SGA leaders, kindly ask your admissions counselor to arrange a call.
    
7. I'm applying for a scholarship, what is the deadline?
   All scholarship offerings, including eligibility criteria can be found at: https://www.aud.edu/admissions/scholarships/ 
   We are currently accepting scholarship applications for Fall 2021 for students with a minimum average of 90% equivalent or above. We accept high school records from grade 10, 11, along with the available grades for grade 12. Your folder can be finalized once final exam results are out. 
   Scholarship application deadline is May 21st, 2021 
    
8. Does AUD help in getting a student visa?
   Yes, AUD assists all students in applying for a student visa through our visa office. Additional details are available at: https://www.aud.edu/admissions/prospective-students/visa-information/
    
9. Does AUD offer dorms for students?
   Convenient, comfortable and safe accommodation is available on campus; detailed information can be found at: https://www.aud.edu/on-aud-campus/accommodation/
    
10. If my high school final exams are postponed or cancelled, will that affect my acceptance at AUD?
    We are mindful of the current situation, and understand that not all documents will be accessible for submission right away. As the situation gains more clarity, AUD will be accepting students based on criteria set forth by the Ministry of Education in the UAE. To discuss your particular situation, you can schedule a video call or speak to one of our admissions team members for guidance on next steps at admissions@aud.edu.
     
11. Can I pay online? 
    Yes, the Finance Office will send you an individual secure link once your enrollment is complete. The Finance Office can be contacted at finance@aud.edu.
     
12. Question added: What are your tuition fees?
    Please visit: https://www.aud.edu/university-overview/administrative-offices/office-of-finance/
     
13. What will be the mode of teaching in the fall?
    AUD has seamlessly adapted and transitioned to online learning as part of our response to the COVID-19 pandemic. Once the global health situation, and specifically that of the UAE, abates, we look forward to welcoming our students back on campus, and into our classrooms. We are working to safeguard the health and well-being of our students, while ensuring that their educational journey remains on track.