The ending of the national and Massachusetts state of emergency declarations related to the pandemic has changed COVID-19 plans on campus.  Please review and familiarize yourself with the following summary of current guidance for the 2023-2024 academic year.

Testing

Massachusetts no longer provides free rapid tests to Health Services, so we in turn are no longer able to distribute those to students.  We strongly advise that all students purchase their own rapid COVID-19 testing kits to keep with other supplies they should have on hand in case they develop a respiratory illness.  If you feel sick with cold/flu symptoms, we suggest performing your own COVID-19 rapid test before calling or coming to Health Services.
Please note that we are not able offer testing to students who have been exposed to COVID-19 and do not have symptoms. Please refer to CDC guidance for recommendations following exposure.

Isolation

There is no longer a separate isolation space on campus for COVID-19. 
  • Students should use the COVID-19 Isolation and Exposure Calculator from the CDC to determine length of isolation based on the date of their symptom onset or positive test.
  • If a student tests positive for COVID-19 and lives on campus, they will be expected to isolate off campus in their home. If that is not possible, they should remain in their regular residence hall room/suite, not attend class/work, minimize contact with others, and wear a face covering to further decrease exposure to others. 
  • If a student tests positive while at home, they should stay home rather than return to campus prior to the end of their isolation period.
  • Students no longer need to notify Health Services if they test positive for COVID-19, however if you are ill and feel that you need to speak to a clinical staff member, please call us at 978-934-6800 during our business hours.
  • If you test positive for COVID-19, notify your professor(s) that you will need to be absent from class during your isolation period.  Health Services does not provide excuse notes.

Facemasks

Masking is not required on campus, however if you have an appointment to see a nurse in Health Services due to respiratory symptoms (cough, congestion, fever, sore throat, etc), you should wear a facemask while in our waiting room and during your appointment.  It is also strongly recommended to wear a mask when in enclosed spaces if you are ill with any respiratory infection.

Vaccination

COVID-19 vaccination is not required, but it is recommended that all individuals stay up to date on their COVID-19 vaccines to protect personal health and that of our larger UML community. Please refer to current vaccination guidelines.

Recommendations for a healthy year at UML 

  • Pack a self-care kit, including a thermometer, Tylenol (acetaminophen), ibuprofen, decongestant or Mucinex, cough drops, face masks, rapid COVID-19 tests, etc. Tip: Look in your home medicine cabinet and see what your household typically keeps on hand and bring a similar assortment of those items.  Putting them in a large ziplock bag or bin keeps it all in one place. 
  • Stay home/out of class if you are feeling unwell.  Tip: contact your professor PRIOR to class time to let them know you will be out.  Monitor symptoms, limit exposure to others, and wear a face covering when interacting with others while sick. 
  • Visit the self-care for common illnesses link for information on common, often self-limiting illnesses to learn what you can do to feel better.  Typically, respiratory viruses will resolve on their own, but if you are sick and would like to speak with a nurse or see a nurse practitioner, please call Health Services at 978-934-6800 during normal business hours.