We are sorry to hear that you are not feeling well and have tested positive for COVID-19.
We want to make sure you understand your responsibilities at this time and the resources available to you.
Students Who Test Positive for COVID-19 Should:
- Stay ‘home’ and away from others until symptoms are improving and have been without a fever for 24 hours (without medication).
- Students who feel they need care or are out of class for more than 2-3 days because of their symptoms should contact Student Health Services by calling 315-228-7750, emailing studenthealth@colgate.edu, or sending a medical portal message.
- Mask when out of your room and use grab-and-go dining until your symptoms have improved and you do not have a fever (and as noted above, consider using that for 5 days beyond).
- Consider additional precautions including masking and grab-and-go dining for an additional 5 days after your symptoms improve.
- Notify your professors, coaches, and administrative dean that you will be out of class for a few days due to illness.
- Notify your roommate(s) and close contacts about their diagnosis.
- If your roommate has a condition that puts them at high risk for severe disease they should contact Student Health Services to discuss their situation.
- We encourage you to open windows as much as possible to improve air exchange and HEPA filters are encouraged.
Symptom Management
- Manage your symptoms the way you would a typical illness.
- Do not take any medication to which you have a known allergy
- Examples of self care medications:
- Acetaminophen (Tylenol) or Ibuprofen (Advil/Motrin) per package instructions for management of fever, headache, sore throat, aches and pains unless you are allergic.
- Honey and lemon for cough.
- Over-the-counter medications like Delsym or Robitussin can help with coughing.
- Over-the-counter decongestants like Sudafed for nasal congestion.
- Be cautious mixing medications as some have multiple ingredients.
- If you feel you need medical evaluation, please call Student Health Services 315-228-7750. If Student Health Services is closed and you feel you need medical evaluation, please seek care at Urgent Care (315-648-6411) of the Emergency Department at Community Memorial Hospital (315-824-1100).
Antiviral Treatment
- Antiviral treatments are available for those that are at high risk for severe complications from COVID 19.
- You may be eligible for treatment with an antiviral medication if you have a medical condition that is associated with a higher risk for severe COVID 19.
- If you have any of these medical conditions, please contact Student Health Services to discuss if treatment may be an option.