Respiratory Virus & COVID-19 Guidance
This information pertains to students only. Smith employees can learn more by visiting Human Resources.
Upper Respiratory Infections
Preventing Spreading a Virus When You’re Sick
If you never had symptoms but tested positive for a respiratory virus, you may be contagious. For the next 5 days: take added precaution, such as taking additional steps for cleaner air, hygiene, masks, physical distancing, and/or testing when you will be around other people indoors. This is especially important to protect people with factors that increase their risk of severe illness from respiratory viruses.
Frequently Asked Questions
When do I need to mask?
Please mask while you are sick and for 5 days after your symptoms are improving and you have been fever free for 24 hours.
When can I go back to classes?
You can return to classes and resume normal activities when your symptoms are improving and you have been fever free for greater than 24 hours. Additional precautions like masking are recommended for 5 days after you resume normal activities.
How do I access meals when I am sick?
Grab-and-go dining is recommended for the duration of symptoms and for 5 days after you are fever free and symptoms are improving. Students are encouraged to plan ahead and identify a trusted individual who can help pick up meals or snacks if they get sick.
What if I have a roommate?
Masking is recommended in the room while awake. If possible, open windows and doors or use a fan to increase ventilation. Socially distance when you are able to.
Do I need to re-test after I test positive for a respiratory virus?
Re-testing is generally not recommended. You can resume normal activities with precautions after you have been fever free for 24 hours and your symptoms are improving.
Who do I have to notify?
Notify your professors if you are going to miss class due to illness. If you are out of classes for more than a week, you can reach out to the Schacht Center to discuss a short term medical leave. You can always reach out to the Dean’s office if you are having trouble completing your coursework.
Support for Students Who Are Immunocompromised And/or Need Accommodations for a Disability
- Visit the Accessibility Resource Center (ARC) to find more information about our services.
- Feel free to contact ARC to discuss options with a team member and to request accommodations.
Note
CDC offers separate, specific guidance for healthcare settings (COVID-19, flu, and general infection prevention and control). Federal civil rights laws may require reasonable modifications or reasonable accommodations in various circumstances. Nothing in this guidance is intended to detract from or supersede those laws.