As students and their families arrive back on campus, Duke Student Health (DSH) has provided important guidance for those who may experience COVID-19 symptoms or test positive for the virus. It is crucial to remember that if a student’s condition appears to be an emergency, they should be directed to call 911 immediately.
Updated CDC Guidance for Respiratory Viruses
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has integrated COVID-19 guidance into its general recommendations for respiratory viruses. Here’s what students need to know:
- For Non-Health Science Students: If a student tests positive for COVID-19, they should remain in their dorm room or apartment until 24 hours after their fever has resolved and symptoms have improved. The term “isolation” is no longer emphasized. Upon returning to regular activities, they should continue wearing a mask for an additional five days to protect others.
Health Services and Testing
DSH continues to offer resources for students who need testing and care:
- Nurse Visits: Students can schedule an appointment with a RN for rapid COVID-19, flu, and strep testing. This option is available for those students who want testing but feel they do not need to see a physician or Advanced Practice Provider (APP).
- Physician/APP Visits: Students who feel unwell and desire a full evaluation can schedule an appointment with DSH to see a physician or APP Rapid COVID-19, flu, and strep testing can be performed during these visits as well.
- To make a same-day appointment for any of the above services at DSH, students should call 919.681.9355 and speak with a triage nurse.
- Seeing a healthcare professional for a positive COVID-19 test is not mandatory and it is no longer required for students to report a positive COVID-19 test result to DSH. However, we do expect all students to follow the CDC guidelines for the protection of others and we do want all students to feel welcome to reach out for care and advice as needed.
- Home Testing Kits: Duke University no longer provides free home rapid COVID-19 test kits through Duke Stores. Students who wish to perform a home COVID-19 test will need to purchase testing kits from any commercial pharmacy.
Vaccination and Preventative Measures
Later this fall, Duke Student Health will offer the updated COVID-19 vaccine to any student who wishes to receive it. The cost of the vaccine will be billed to the student’s insurance. There is no longer a requirement to receive a COVID-19 vaccine, but it remains an available option for those interested.
Housing and Quarantine Policies
Duke University is not providing isolation space for students who test positive for COVID-19. Additionally, the university is not arranging separate accommodations for roommates when a student tests positive for COVID-19. In the event of a student testing positive for COVID-19, roommate mask-wearing and frequent hand washing are encouraged. Students who wish to separate from their roommates are responsible for making their own off-campus arrangements, as Duke/DSH will not facilitate these arrangements or reimburse associated costs.
Health Science Students
Health science students who test positive for COVID-19 should follow their academic program’s guidelines for returning to program activities.
Please reach out to DSH with any questions.