The most important measure for preventing severe illness from COVID-19 is vaccination. Vaccination also provides some protection from infection, although this protection has been shown to wane, highlighting the importance of staying up to date on vaccine doses. Inhalation of virus particles and deposition of virus on mucous membranes can be prevented by wearing a well-fitting mask or respirator and avoiding crowded indoor spaces with poor ventilation. Handwashing can help prevent transmission from contact with contaminated surfaces (fomite transmission). Used in combination, layered interventions (e.g., vaccination, mask wearing, avoiding crowded indoor spaces with poor ventilation, and staying away from people who are sick) are measures that can further reduce risk of transmission.

As of August 2024, CDC recommends the updated 2024-25 COVID vaccine for everyone aged 6 months and over. The vaccine is now available through several pharmacies. The Student Health Insurance Plan (USHIP) as well as all major insurances will fully cover the cost of the vaccine.

You can search and schedule an available COVID-19 vaccine through one of the following links:

• CVS 
• Walgreens
• Jewel Osco
• City of Chicago Vaccination Sites
• Vaccines.gov

The news that you have tested positive for COVID-19 may be disconcerting, but the University of Chicago is here to support you as you navigate this period. The following guidance will help you understand what you need to do and what resources are available to you. Given that you have tested positive for COVID-19, you are advised to isolate in your residence. While no one wants to stay away from the rest of campus, the goal is to enable you to recover while also protecting others from exposure to illness. Even if you are asymptomatic, isolation will help keep others safe while you are contagious. Isolation is used to separate sick people from healthy people.

The following information is taken directly from the CDC.

When to Isolate

Regardless of vaccination status, you should isolate from others when you have COVID-19.

You should also isolate if you are sick and suspect that you have COVID-19 but do not yet have test results. If your results are positive, follow the isolation recommendations below. If your results are negative, you can end your isolation.

If you test negative for COVID-19:

You can end your isolation.

If you test positive for COVID-19:

You should also follow guidance provided by the CDC.

Wearing a well-fitting mask or respirator that completely covers the nose and mouth reduces SARS-CoV-2 transmission. When worn by a person who is infected, masks can serve as source control, reducing the spread of SARS-CoV-2 to others. This can be particularly important early in infection if the infected person is not able to isolate. Respiratory protection protects the wearer from inhaling infectious particles; this type of protection typically comes from respirators (e.g., N95 or KN95 respirators). NIOSH-approved respirators (including N95s) offer the highest level of protection. Masks made from layered finely woven products afford some protection, with the least amount of protection being offered by loosely woven cloth products. See more details about types of masks and respirators. Using masks can be particularly helpful in crowded indoor settings and during travel. 

You should always seek treatment immediately if you feel your symptoms are truly serious. If you are experiencing any of the following symptoms, call 911 and/or go to the emergency room:

• Difficulty breathing or shortness of breath
• Difficulty speaking
• Chest or upper abdominal pressure or pain
• Confusion
• Any sudden or severe pain
• Severe or persistent vomiting or diarrhea

The UChicago Medicine Emergency Room is located at: 5656 South Maryland Avenue (773.702.6250).

If you are not sure if you should seek immediate medical attention, please call the UChicago Student Wellness Medical Advice Line, available 24/7, at 773.834.9355.

If you feel you need immediate treatment of very serious or critical conditions, call 911 or go to the nearest emergency room. If possible, call the emergency room before arriving and let them know that you have tested positive for COVID-19. The University of Chicago Medicine’s Emergency Department is located at: 5656 South Maryland Avenue (773.702.6250).

Staff from UChicago Student Wellness are available to discuss any symptoms you may be experiencing or any medical care you may need. Our on-campus physicians and clinicians are available to meet with you virtually, or in person, free of charge. You may call 773.834.9355 for appointments or medical advice. Also, a nurse is available to speak with you 24/7 to discuss any questions or concerns you may have. 

Students on the University Student Health Insurance Plan (U-SHIP) may reach a doctor, 24/7, free of charge by visiting telehealth4students.com or calling 855.866.0895. Students not on U-SHIP may use this option; however, we encourage you to contact your insurance provider, as many insurance companies offer low- or no-cost telemedicine options. 

For mental health concerns, call 773.702.3625 to reach our Therapist-on-Call, who is available 24/7.

Let’s Talk provides easy access to free, informal, and confidential consultations with therapists. No appointment is necessary. In addition, support spaces, groups, and workshops are available to support an array of mental health needs.

For general inquiries or to schedule an initial appointment with a clinician, call 773.834.9355. Further information on mental health options is available at wellness.uchicago.edu. Student Wellness is offering a number of programs online, including mindfulness, wellness coaching, and others. Visit wellness.uchicago.edu for an updated list of programs. We encourage you to reach out to our offices if you have any questions, concerns, or are in need of medical or mental health support.