Frequently Asked Questions

On This Page

Covid-19 Frequently Asked Questions

Whether you are a current or incoming student, a parent or guardian, a faculty member, staff member, or any part of the Fairfield University community, we want to keep you up-to-date on our latest health protocols so you can remain an integral part of our campus life.Below you will find a host of helpful questions and answers regarding Fairfield’s plans and protocols, including important items on services, facilities, and events.

Covid-19 vaccination helps to protect against severe disease.  Fairfield is strongly encouraging students to be up to date with their Covid-19 vaccinations.  Everyone aged 6 and older should get 1 updated Pfizer-BioNTech or Moderna Covid-19 vaccine to be up to date.  Individuals at higher risk of severe disease have a special vaccination regime.

To learn more, go to: https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/vaccines/stay-up-to-date.html

People with Covid-19 have had a wide range of symptoms reported – ranging from mild symptoms to severe illness. Symptoms may appear 2-14 days after exposure to the virus. Anyone can have mild to severe symptoms.

Possible symptoms include:

  • Fever or chills
  • Cough
  • Shortness of breath or difficulty breathing
  • Fatigue
  • Muscle aches or body aches
  • Headache
  • New loss of taste or smell
  • Sore throat
  • Congestion or runny nose
  • Nausea or vomiting
  • Diarrhea

If feeling sick, eligible students can visit the Student Health Center located in Jogues Hall within the residential quad. Covid-19 testing is available at the Student Health Center.

  • If you have symptoms, test immediately.
  • If you were exposed to Covid-19 and do not have symptoms, wait at least 5 full days after your exposure before testing.

All students, regardless of vaccination status, who are exposed to Covid-19 will need to wear a mask for ten days after last exposure, monitor for symptoms and if asymptomatic, wait at least five full days after your last exposure before testing. If you were exposed and develop symptoms, test right away. 

The Student Health Center has a supply of free at-home Covid-19 tests for students needing a test. 

Resources

Understanding Exposure Risks
What to Do if You Were Exposed to COVID-19

Students testing positive for Covid-19 must call the Student Health Center at 203-254-4000, Ext. 2241.

Following CDC guidelines, regardless of vaccination status, all individuals who test positive for Covid-19 will need to isolate away from others for a full five days. Following the five-day isolation period, return to the University community is allowed if certain criteria are met. There is a strict masking mandate for an additional five days.  In general, students should plan to isolate at home or a privately arranged location.

As is the case when students must miss class for medical/health-related reasons, students are responsible for making up missed work and should consult with their instructor(s) on how best continue or make-up coursework. Students should notify their faculty upon confirmation of a positive result.

Anyone can have mild to severe symptoms from Covid-19. Older adults and people who have severe underlying medical conditions like heart or lung disease or diabetes seem to be at higher risk for developing more serious complications from Covid-19 illness. Look for emergency warning signs for Covid-19.  If you are showing any of these signs or symptoms, seek emergency medical care immediately:

  • Trouble breathing
  • Persistent pain or pressure in the chest
  • New confusion
  • Inability to wake or stay awake
  • Bluish lips or face

Call Public Safety at 203-254-4090 or call 911. Notify the operator of your symptoms and your Covid-19 status.

Covid-19 Vaccination

Talk to your healthcare provider about whether you are at high risk of getting very sick from Covid-19
  • People who are more likely to get very sick include older adults (age 50 or more, with risk increasing with age), people who are unvaccinated, and people with certain medical conditions, such as chronic lung disease, heart disease, or a weakened immune system.
In addition to vaccination, the following measures are helpful (especially for individuals at high risk of severe disease):
  • Wear a well-fitting face mask when recommended
  • Avoid crowds, poorly ventilated spaces and contact with people who are sick
  • Cover your cough with a tissue and wash your hands often
  • Monitor your health daily and stay home when you are sick
  • If you have symptoms, test soon and treat early (prescription antiviral medication treatment is indicated for individuals at risk of severe disease)

For more information go to:https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/index.html.

Search Results