COVID-19 FAQ

Vaccines have been and remain an effective tool for preventing serious illness, especially in those at higher risk for complications. The primary vaccination series, however, is significantly less effective at preventing transmission of the emerging and prevalent subvariants of the virus. For this reason, we no longer require the COVID-19 primary vaccine series but continue to strongly recommend that you stay up to date with the most recent vaccination available as a barrier to serious illness.

At this time, face coverings are not required in most locations on campus. Any individual who makes the personal decision to wear a face covering will be fully supported; however, no additional requirements for face coverings should be implemented at the unit, facility or event level.

Face coverings continue to be required in healthcare settings on campus.

UIS is no longer conducting contact tracing or providing directives to individuals who test positive or are exposed to COVID-19. It is recommended that you alert others who are close contacts about your positive test so they are aware of a potential exposure. Quarantine is no longer required after an exposure, but individuals should follow CDC guidance for what to do if exposed.

General guidance for students and employees who test positive is provided below. Please also familiarize yourself with CDC guidance on ending isolation for further information.

Isolate for at least five days from when symptoms started or the day you test positive. Day 1 is the first full day you are symptomatic or the first day after submitting your test sample. If your symptoms are improving and you are fever-free for at least 24 hours after completing Day 5, you may return to normal activity but should wear a mask for the next five days. If you aren’t improving or still have a fever, continue to isolate until you improve or 10 days have passed since symptoms began.

Residential Students: If possible, please spend your isolation period at your permanent home address. If you stay at UIS, please note that Food Services is no longer providing food deliveries and you will need to rely on friends or delivery services to receive meals.

Please follow CDC guidance to determine when to return to class, work or other activities.

Employees should stay home for at least five days (working remotely if possible and approved by a supervisor) from when symptoms started or the day you test positive. Day 1 is your first full day of symptoms or the first day after submitting your test sample. If your symptoms are improving and you are fever-free for at least 24 hours after completing Day 5, you may return to normal activity but should wear a mask for the next five days. If you aren’t improving or still have a fever, continue to isolate until you improve or 10 days have passed since symptoms began.

Please follow CDC guidance or contact your healthcare provider for any questions about returning to work or other activities. To see if you are eligible for paid leave if you are unable to work, visit the System Human Resources Office website.