How to Protect Yourself and Others

Please Note: COVID-19 protocols will be reviewed and updated on a regular basis. Please check this website frequently for the most up-to-date information.

The Presidential Task Force has worked to create policies and guidelines that guide us during the pandemic. Task force members represent all major areas of campus and have been working diligently to respond to this pandemic and ensure the health and safety of our campus community and also prepare for possible disruptions to our normal operations.

To protect yourself and others, get vaccinated and follow the health and safety guidelines on this page as provided by the CDC.

We expect all faculty, staff and students to practice thorough hand washing at least five times daily while on campus. In addition, there will be hand sanitizing stations throughout campus.

In certain areas on campus we also will install Plexiglas shields to reduce the spread of germs. You will find these shields in the business office and library, for example.

We understand that these policies will require a change in behavior. They are meant to minimize the chance of community spread of the coronavirus and to practice appropriate good hygiene behavior.

Masks

Masks remain optional with the following exceptions:

  • Individual instructors may require masks in their classrooms as part of their standard classroom management.
  • Those visiting Cornerstone Health Services may be required to wear masks when entering the facility.

While masks are not required except as noted above, anyone who feels more comfortable wearing a mask on campus is encouraged to do so.

Know How COVID-19 Spreads

The best way to prevent illness is to get vaccinated and to avoid being exposed to the virus

The virus is thought to spread mainly from person-to-person.

  • Between people who are in close contact with one another (within about 6 feet).
  • Through respiratory droplets produced when an infected person coughs, sneezes or talks.
  • These droplets can land in the mouths or noses of people who are nearby or possibly be inhaled into the lungs.
  • COVID-19 may be spread by people who are not showing symptoms.

Follow CDC Guidelines to Limit Spread of COVID-19

  • Wash Your Hands Often
    • Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds especially after you have been in a public place, or after blowing your nose, coughing, or sneezing.
    • If soap and water are not readily available, use a hand sanitizer that contains at least 60% alcohol. Cover all surfaces of your hands and rub them together until they feel dry.
    • Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth with unwashed hands.
  • Avoid Close Contact
    • Avoid close contact with people who are sick, even inside your home. If possible, maintain six feet between the person who is sick and other household members.
    • Put distance between yourself and other people outside of your home.
      • Remember that some people without symptoms may be able to spread virus.
      • Stay at least six feet (about two arms’ length) from other people.
      • Keeping distance from others is especially important for people who are at higher risk of getting very sick.
  • Wear a Mask or Face Cover
    • You could spread COVID-19 to others even if you test positive, but do not feel sick. A cloth face cover is meant to protect other people in case you are infected.
    • If sick, wear a cloth face cover when going out in public.
  • Cover Coughs & Sneezes
    • If you are around others and do not have on your cloth face covering, remember to always cover your mouth and nose with a tissue when you cough or sneeze or use the inside of your elbow and do not spit.
    • Throw used tissues in the trash.
    • Immediately wash your hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. If soap and water are not readily available, clean your hands with a hand sanitizer that contains at least 60% alcohol.​
  • Clean & Disinfect
    • Clean and disinfect frequently touched surfaces daily. This includes tables, doorknobs, light switches, countertops, handles, desks, phones, keyboards, toilets, faucets, and sinks.
    • If surfaces are dirty, clean them. Use detergent or soap and water prior to disinfection.
    • Then, use a household disinfectant. Most common EPA-registered household disinfectants will work.
  • Monitor Your Health
    • Be alert for symptoms. Watch for fever, cough, shortness of breath, or other symptoms of COVID-19.
      • Especially important if you are running essential errands, going into the office or workplace, and in settings where it may be difficult to keep a physical distance of six feet.
    • Take your temperature if symptoms develop.
      • Don’t take your temperature within 30 minutes of exercising or after taking medications that could lower your temperature, like acetaminophen.
    • Follow CDC guidance if symptoms develop.

Campus Resources

National, State & Local Resources