Even if you don’t think you have COVID-19, but you are sick, stay home. Symptoms of COVID-19 are very similar to other common illnesses (cold, flu, allergies), therefore, any sickness should be taken seriously.

Missing class: St. Cloud State’s guidance: Communicate your absence to your professor.  Even in a pandemic medical information is private, so details of illness or a specific diagnosis do not need to be shared with faculty or campus offices.  Simply "I am sick and not able to participate" is sufficient communication.  Please communicate with your professor on what steps you can take to make up necessary assignments and keep up, while you are out of class.

If you need help contacting your professors, use your Advisor/Success Team/Student Relations Director to navigate through the process. 

For more information on “what to do if I’m sick, been in contact with someone positive for COVID-19" see the FAQ section.

Washing hands decreases transfer of the virus.

Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds especially after you have been in a public place, or after blowing your nose, coughing, or sneezing.

Hand Sanitizer: If soap and water are not readily available, use a hand sanitizer that contains at least 60% alcohol. Cover all surfaces of your hands and rub them together until they feel dry.

Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth with unwashed hands.

What is it? Avoiding close contact with others. Keep a distance of 6 feet (2 meters) between yourself and others not within your household.

Why? COVID-19 spreads mainly among people who are in close contact (within about 6 feet) for a prolonged period.

Physical or social? St. Cloud State has chosen to use PHYSICAL DISTANCING. Sustaining social and relational connections during this time is extremely important. Staying 6 feet apart and physically distancing ourselves from others is crucial to slowing the spread of COVID-19. Choosing physical distancing terminology encourages others to maintain social connectedness through this difficult time.

More information: https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/prevent-getting-sick/social-distancing.html

Germs are more easily spread via coughs and sneezes.

Always cover your mouth and nose with a tissue when you cough or sneeze or use the inside of your elbow. Throw used tissues in the trash. Immediately wash your hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. If soap and water are not readily available, clean your hands with a hand sanitizer that contains at least 60% alcohol.