COVID Update: Practicing COVID Prevention
On March 1, the CDC provided new guidance for COVID-19 isolation recommendations. People who test positive for COVID-19 may leave isolation when they have been fever-free for 24 hours without the aid of fever reducing medication and their overall symptoms are improving. The CDC encourages individuals to use the core prevention strategies below to curb the spread of illness. The new recommendations bring COVID-19 in line with how other common viruses, such as influenza and RSV, are managed. Grinnell College will implement the changes immediately.
CDC recommends that all people use core prevention strategies. These are important steps you can take to protect yourself and others:
- Wear a mask when symptomatic
- Stay up to date with immunizations
- Practice good hygiene (practices that improve cleanliness)
- Take steps for cleaner air
- When you may have a respiratory virus:
- Use precautions to prevent spread
-Â Seek health care promptly for testing and/or treatment if you have risk factors for severe illness; treatment may help lower your risk of severe illness
Care Recommendations
- Student isolates in place
- May end isolation when they have been fever-free for at least 24 hours without the aid of medication and their overall symptoms are improving.
Housing
COVID positive student isolates in their room until they have been fever-free for at least 24 hours without the aid of fever-reducing and their overall symptoms are improving.
Missing class or work for illness
- Students should coordinate with faculty members and workplace supervisors.
- College employees should communicate with supervisor and utilize appropriate sick time.
Follow current CDC guidelines if you are symptomatic, test positive, or have had an exposure.
Flu Update and Vaccination
Flu remains low on campus.
Flu shots are still available through healthcare providers, local pharmacies, and Poweshiek County Public Health. Visit the UnityPoint Health–Grinnell Public Health website for more information.
Students, faculty, and staff at high-risk for complications may request an accommodation through Accessibility and Disability Resources.