COVID-19 Information
The beginning of the school year often increases the risk of respiratory illnesses (cold, flu, COVID-19, and many other viruses). Here are the current guidelines for care should you become infected with COVID-19.
I live in close proximaty to others. What happens if one of us gets sick?
As many students live in close proximity to one another, both on and off campus, it is important to have a conversation with your roommates now about how you will manage illnesses as someone is bound to get sick. Having a plan before you need it is an excellent way for everyone to understand your living environment in cases of illness. Some thoughts to include in the conversation include:
- Are you all local enough that someone will plan to go home if sick?
- Does your set-up allow the sick roommate(s) to have a space to be more to themselves while recovering?
If these aren’t possible, then regular cleaning of shared spaces (doorknobs, counters, the TV remote, etc.) and wearing masks is strongly suggested.
What are the symptoms that indicate COVID-19 (or other respiratory infections)?
Common symptoms of respiratory infections include:
- new-onset fever (>/= 100.4 F or 38 C)
- chills
- fatigue
- sore throat, nasal congestion, runny nose, cough
- shortness of breath
- loss of smell or taste
- muscle/body aches
- vomiting/diarrhea
Most symptoms do not last long. Some ways to take care of yourself and feel more comfortable during recovery include:
- take over-the-counter medications to help relieve your symptoms (like Tylenol or Advil)
- get rest and drinking fluids
When should I see a doctor?
If you find that your fever persists even after taking fever-reducing medicine like Tylenol or Advil, or if you experience persistent vomiting/diarrhea, worsening in breathing/chest pain, or any other medical concerns, it's crucial that you seek additional medical care. You can contact Student Health Services to make an appointment via MyBuckMD or by phone.
Do I need to isolate if I have COVID-19?
No, the Center for Disease Control (CDC) no longer recommends five days of isolation for those infected with COVID-19, unless you are a healthcare worker. You may return to normal activities when you have been fever-free for at least 24 hours without fever-reducing medication (for example: acetaminophen, ibuprofen), and your symptoms are improving. Take recommended precautions (see below) while recovering.
What precautions can I take if I suspect I have COVID-19 or have tested positive?
Precautions such as physical distancing, masks, and hygiene measures, including covering your coughs and sneezes, washing/sanitizing your hands often, and cleaning frequently touched surfaces (ex., doorknobs, keyboards, etc.) are all recommended. These precautions will help protect others (roommates, classmates, professors, etc.) from getting sick.
Do I need to test negative for COVID-19 before returning to classes or normal activity?
You do not need to re-test to return to regular activity. You may return to normal activities when you have been fever-free for at least 24 hours without fever-reducing medication (for example: acetaminophen, ibuprofen), and your symptoms are improving. Additional guidance for respiratory viruses can be found at Safe and Health Buckeyes and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
If you have additional questions, visit the Safe and Healthy Buckeyes webpage.