COVID-19 READ: Protocols for Testing, Isolation and Quarantine Due to Positive COVID-19 Testing Results

The following information represents protocols based on positive cases of COVID-19 identified among the campus community.  Consistent with federal, state and local public health guidance, it is based on your vaccination status:

Unvaccinated/ Non-Exempted Students:  

  • Students who return to Potsdam without submitting documentation on vaccination status are required to submit a negative test result prior to moving in or attending class fully masked. They will be issued their keys and be able to attend class after obtaining proof of getting the first dose of vaccination, which can be obtained locally.  The Pfizer vaccine has full FDA approval as of August 23, 2021.   
  • Students in this category who test positive while waiting to be fully vaccinated will be required to isolate at home and/or at a local hotel at their expense.  The Dean of Students will work with these students on missing class, following existing university regulations for absences.
  • Students  in this category who are required to quarantine due to exposure to a positive case will be asked to quarantine at home and/or at a local hotel at their expense.  The Dean of Students will work with these students on missing class, following existing university regulations for absences.
  • All unvaccinated students, including students who are not fully vaccinated, will receive an appointment schedule for regular COVID-19 testing until they are fully vaccinated.  Failure to make your appointment and/or work with the dean to obtain a test through another channel will result in a dean’s inquiry up to and including suspension of privileges to be on campus with no  refunds for meals, housing or tuition.

Students with Exemptions: 

  • Students who have a religious or medical exemption, who test positive for COVID-19 will be asked to complete their public health mandated isolation period at their home if they live within a 500 mile radius of campus.  A limited amount of isolation space is available on campus for those who do not have this alternative.  The Dean of Students will work with these students on missing class, following existing university regulations for absences.
  • Students who have a religious or medical exemption, who are required to quarantine due to exposure to a positive case will be asked to complete their quarantine period at their home if they live within a 500 mile radius.  The University will supplement the expenses of students who are beyond this radius who need to stay at a hotel during the quarantine period.  The Dean of Students will work with these students on missing class, following existing university regulations for absences.
  • All unvaccinated students will receive an appointment schedule for regular testing until they are fully vaccinated.  Failure to make your appointment and/or work with the dean to obtain a test through another channel will result in a dean’s inquiry up to and including suspension of privileges to be on campus with no  refunds for meals, housing or tuition.

Vaccinated Students Who Test Positive for COVID-19:

  • Students who are fully vaccinated who test positive for COVID-19 will be asked to complete their public health mandated isolation period at their home if they live within a 500 mile radius of campus.  Others can be   housed on campus for their public health mandated isolation period. If hotel space is needed to accommodate cases, the University will procure this space.  The Dean of Students will work with these students on missing class, following existing university regulations for absences.
  • Students who are fully vaccinated who are exposed to a positive case for COVID-19 will receive a notice from Public Health or from the University on behalf of Public Health.  Based on CDC guidance, these students do NOT have to quarantine but should get PCR tested 3-5 days after exposure and monitor themselves for COVID-19 symptoms.  During that period, these students should wear a mask in all settings, including their residential unit, and limit contact with others until a negative test result or wear a mask for 14 days after exposure.
  • A random sample of vaccinated students will be done throughout the semester or until the requirement is lifted to further support monitoring for COVID-19.  

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