Fall break is over and winter is in the air, which means we all will be spending more time inside and closer together. That’s why it’s more important than ever to know your COVID-19 status.

As you return to campus, it is recommended you get tested, even if you are vaccinated and do not have symptoms. Currently the majority of students, faculty, and staff is fully vaccinated, but that doesn’t mean the community is immune to the virus. Asymptomatic transmission by vaccinated individuals still does happen. You should also continue to get tested throughout the semester for the continued protection of yourself and members of the campus community.

Getting tested is easy. You can sign up for an appointment here. It only takes a minute, and there are several locations on campus to make testing as accessible as possible. Testing is open not only to campus community members but also to members of their households.

Of course, testing is not the only tool we can use to prevent the spread of COVID-19. Masks are also important, especially now that we will be indoors for the majority of the time. When you are inside, please wear a mask that covers both your nose and mouth.

If you have been exposed to COVID-19, it is mandatory that you wear a mask while on campus for 14 days after exposure if you are vaccinated. If you are not vaccinated, you must spend 10 days in quarantine then continue to wear a mask for the final four days of that period when you are in public. In either case, you should be tested three to five days after the exposure to make sure you have not contracted the virus.

We are fortunate to be back on campus in a cooperative learning environment. To keep that environment safe and functional, we all need to play a part and take a few precautions. By getting tested, wearing a mask when necessary and following exposure guidelines, you are protecting yourself, people around you and the community as a whole. By doing just a few things, you are making a huge difference.