Dear Students, 

We write with additional information to assist students who have returned to campus and have tested positive for COVID-19 or who may test positive in the coming days, as we have exceeded our capacity to move COVID-19 positive resident students into isolation. We also want students whose roommates test positive to understand their options in this environment. We hope that this information will also help students who have not yet returned to campus decide what is best for them for next week. 

Isolation Capacity

Due to the surge in positive COVID-19 test results, as of this afternoon, isolation housing for resident students is currently at full capacity.  Although we have implemented a policy of being able to test out of isolation after 5 days with a negative rapid antigen test (following local and state guidelines), we will not be able to place newly positive cases in separate isolation housing at this time. Until further notice, students who test positive will need to isolate in place in their residence hall.

Rapid Antigen Tests Availability

Students who suspect that they have been recently exposed to COVID-19 or who have COVID-like symptoms may now use a rapid antigen test to achieve faster results. Please continue to test weekly with Color as well. You may obtain rapid antigen tests and KN-95 masks at residence hall service desks, the Health Ambassador table outside of the Learning Commons, or at the Benson Information Desk.

What to do if you test positive:

• Go home if you can do so safely, (i.e., without using public transportation or putting family members with underlying health conditions at risk).
• If you remain on campus, you will need to shelter in place. This means only leaving your room to use the restroom, get tested, or get grab-n-go food in Benson Memorial Center (you should not visit public restaurants or stores). 
• Wear a KN-95 or N95 mask whenever you are around other individuals.
• On day 5 after your initial positive test (see example below), you should take a rapid antigen test. If this test is negative you can end your isolation; if it is positive then test with a rapid test again on day 7. If that is negative then you can end your isolation. If it is positive, you must complete a 10 day isolation. 
• Initial test on January 5 (the date the test was taken)
• 1st rapid test on January 10 (5 days from the 1st day after the initial test date)
• 2nd rapid test (if needed) on January 12, (7 days from the 1st day after the initial test date)
• End of full isolation (if needed) on January 15.

What to do if your roommate tests positive, but you test negative:

• Go home if you would like to.
• Wear a KN-95 or N95 mask whenever you are around other individuals.
• If you have roommates or a shared bathroom, understand that you may have to share that space with someone who is positive for COVID-19 and is sheltering in place.

Thanks to everyone for your continued care for each other and efforts to minimize the spread.

 

SCU COVID-19 Operations Team

Michael Crowley
Vice President, Finance and Administration

Jeanne Rosenberger
Vice Provost for Student Life