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Respiratory Infections

Management of Respiratory Infections Including COVID-19

On March 1, 2024, the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) revised its guidelines for individuals with respiratory viruses, including COVID-19.  According to the CDC’s updated recommendations, individuals who test positive for COVID-19 are no longer required to isolate; instead they will be advised to:  

  1. stay away from others - remaining out of classes, work and public spaces.
  2. wear a well-fitted mask if they must be around others; and
  3. receive to-go meals.

  These recommendations apply until:

  1.  their symptoms have improved and
  2. they have been fever-free for 24 hours without the use of fever-reducing medication. Once meeting these criteria, individuals may return to normal activities while wearing a well-fitted mask for at least five days. Students, faculty, and staff should return to class, work and/or other activities only after they meet these requirements.

Employees who test positive for COVID-19 should follow the University’s sick leave policy [Employee Handbook 2023-24 Use of Sick Leave, Section 6.2 employee_handbook_web.pdf (desu.edu)].  In general, it is recommended that employees stay home when they are sick to prevent the spread of respiratory viruses in the workplace.  It is also recommended that you seek medical care as needed and follow your medical provider's treatment plan. 

Exposure

Individuals who are exposed to someone with COVID-19 must monitor their condition for symptoms, then test if symptoms develop, consistent with the CDC’s revised guidance. (Previously, masking was required during this period).  

If you have symptoms of a respiratory virus, take precautions to prevent spread, including masking, hand hygiene and improved air ventilation (open windows, use a fan, meet outdoors, etc.). If you have risk factors for severe illness, see your healthcare provider for possible treatment to help lower your risk of severe disease, hospitalization, and death. Stay up to date with immunizations against respiratory viruses.

Required Student Documentation

Students who test positive for COVID-19 should communicate directly with their professor(s) regarding their return to class based on symptoms, when they are without a fever for 24 hours and when their symptoms have diminished or improved. Students who have their positive COVID-19 results verified by the Campus Health Center will receive documentation of their absence from class.

No On-Campus Isolation Rooms

There are no isolation rooms on any of our campus locations, and students are advised to go home to recover. Those who are unable to go home will remain in their room and must wear a well-fitted mask if around others.