Coronavirus Testing, Exposure, and Symptoms Protocols

Regardless of vaccination status, individuals who have tested positive for COVID-19 or experiencing COVID-19 symptoms should follow the University COVID-19 protocols below.

COVID-19 Symptoms

COVID-19 symptoms attributed to COVID-19 include but are not limited to one or more of the following:

  • cough
  • shortness of breath or difficulty breathing
  • fever
  • chills
  • muscle pain
  • sore throat
  • a new loss of taste or smell

In addition, other less common symptoms have been reported, including gastrointestinal symptoms like nausea, vomiting or diarrhea. See the CDC guidelines for Symptoms of COVID-19.

Individuals Must Contact:

Positive COVID-19 Test or Symptoms

Per the CDC guidelines, these individuals should contact a medical professional if desired or needed and isolate per University guidelines. Individuals cannot return to campus until:

  • At least five days have passed since the day after symptoms first appeared, and
  • At least 24 hours have passed with no fever without fever-reducing medication, and
  • Other symptoms of COVID-19 are improving (loss of taste and smell may persist for weeks or months and need not delay the end of isolation) or
  • If there were no symptoms, five days from the day after a positive test.

Regardless of vaccination status, individuals must wear a mask when returning to campus for 10 days following the date when symptoms first appeared or following the positive test date.

If an employee has had moderate (e.g., difficulty breathing), severe COVID-19 illness (e.g., hospitalized), or a weakened immune system, they are required to isolate for 10 days, and the University will follow the guidance of a licensed healthcare provider regarding return to work.

The University will notify individuals who may have been exposed to a COVID-19 positive case.

Exposure/Close Contact

Regardless of vaccination status, individuals exposed to or have had close contact with someone with COVID-19 who DO NOT have symptoms must follow the University guidelines below.

Individuals are NOT required to quarantine, but CDC recommends:

  • Wear a mask for 10 days from the date of exposure.
  • Test for COVID-19 after five full days from exposure (6th day).
    • If negative, continue wearing a mask for the 10-day precautionary and monitor for symptoms.
    • If positive, notify the University and follow protocols for testing positive.

COVID-19 Tests

Per CDC, viral tests look for a current infection with SARS-CoV-2, the virus that causes COVID-19, by testing specimens from your nose or mouth. It is recommended to test for COVID-19 using nucleic acid amplification tests (NAATs), such as a PCR test or an antigen test.