COVID-19
Current COVID-19 Protocols
Updated August 1, 2022
Report
Positive Test, Vaccinations, or Boosters
Masking
A well-fitting mask is:
- Optional for students, faculty, staff, and visitors in most situations.
- Recommended in larger indoor settings.
- May be required in certain large indoor settings.
Mask when requested by faculty and staff in classrooms and individual work spaces. Respect those who choose to mask.
A KN95/N95/KF94 mask is required in public for anyone who:
- Tests positive for COVID-19.
- Is experiencing symptoms.
- Has been exposed via a COVID-positive roommate or intimate contact.
Please note: masks with an exhalation valve, such as this Cool Flow design, are not allowed.
Testing
Students, faculty and staff must report positive test results using our COVID-19 reporting form.
Vaccinations
All students, faculty, staff, volunteers, independent contractors and staffing agency employees are required to be up to date on their COVID-19 vaccinations based on CDC guidance. Under current guidelines, “up to date” means two boosters for people 50+ and one booster for most people under age 50.
Those 50+ have until December 31, 2022, to receive their second booster to allow for choice and flexibility as a new Omicron-specific booster is anticipated later this fall. If and when this guidance changes, employees will be required to get additional boosters as indicated by CDC guidelines.
Compliance with St. Olaf’s COVID-19 policy is a condition of employment for all faculty and staff. Those who believe they qualify for a reasonable accommodation because of a disability or sincerely held religious belief may complete one of the following forms:
- Complete this form to request a Religious Accommodation
- Complete this form to request a Disability Accommodation
Vaccine accommodation questions may be directed to VaccineAccommodation@stolaf.edu.
Visitors
Visitors are allowed on campus, but they must be up to date on their COVID-19 vaccinations based on CDC guidance, and follow all campus COVID-19 protocols. Under current guidelines, “up to date” means two boosters for people 50+ and one booster for most people under age 50.
Classrooms
Classrooms and other academic facilities are operating normally. Faculty may require masking in their classroom.
Events
St. Olaf-sponsored events are permitted, with flexibility for event organizers to implement COVID-19 safety protocols based on the type and location of the event.
Isolation protocols
Individuals who test positive must report their positive tests using the COVID-19 reporting form and then follow instructions for an eight-day isolation period.
Faculty and staff members may not come to campus during their isolation period.
Students who test positive will stay in their residence hall rooms, or are encouraged to travel home for the duration of their isolation period if they are able to do so. Limited isolation space will be available and restricted to qualifying students. Case management staff will work with students who may qualify for isolation housing, and provide guidance to all students in isolation.
People who have tested positive may attempt to test out of isolation on Day 6 if symptoms are improving or they have had no symptoms for the last 24 hours, including no fever without the help of fever-reducing medication. You must provide proof of a negative test (email to: contacttracing@stolaf.edu) before returning to campus/class/campus activities.
Health services
Students, faculty and staff should report symptoms using our COVID-19 reporting form.
Non-emergency COVID-19 medical resources for students:
- St. Olaf Health Services: 507-786-3063
- COVID-19 information line: 507-646-1919
- TimelyCare (free 24/7 medical and mental telehealth care.)
- Northfield Hospital + Clinics Emergency Department: 507-646-1494
Local/national COVID information and data
Rice County
Minnesota Department of Health
Minnesota Public Health Risk Measures
CDC COVID Data Tracker
CDC COVID-19 Community Levels
Questions and feedback
Email: c19@stolaf.edu