Coronavirus disease (COVID-19) is caused by the novel SARS-CoV-2 virus that infects the nose or mouth causing mild to severe respiratory disease. Although most recover without requiring special treatment, anyone at any age can get sick with COVID-19 and become seriously ill or die. Covid illness also results in missing school and important campus events, and some with seemingly mild illness will develop Long Covid. The first and most important step in preventing COVID-19 is to get vaccinated.

How COVID Spreads

COVID-19 spreads when an infected person breathes out droplets and very small particles that contain the virus. These droplets and particles can be breathed in by others or get in through their eyes, noses, or mouth. 

People with Covid-19 can be Contagious before they have Symptoms

COVID-19 transmission has changed and continues to change as new variants arise, but in general:

• People are thought to be most contagious one to two days before symptoms, and in the two to three days after symptom onset
• People with no symptoms can also spread the coronavirus to others
• Symptoms may appear 2-10 days after exposure to the virus
• People with mild disease are thought to transmit for up to 10 days after becoming sick
• People with moderate to severe disease are thought to transmit up to 20 days or longer depending upon patient risk factors

Exposure and Symptoms

You should follow the UC Public Health COVID-19 campus guidelines.

If you have been exposed, wear a mask, monitor for symptoms, avoid exposing others, and get tested.

If you have symptoms of COVID-19 such as cough, shortness of breath, or fever:

• You should stay home, and avoid contact with other people except to get medical care
• Most people with mild illness are able to recover at home with self-care treatments
• You should be tested for COVID-19
• If you are an older adult or have underlying medical conditions like heart or lung disease or diabetes, you are high-risk for severe illness and should contact your doctor to discuss COVID-19 treatments
• If you are experiencing life-threatening symptoms including but not limited to:
  • Trouble breathing
  • Persistent pain or pressure in the chest
  • New confusion
  • Inability to wake or stay awake
  • Pale, gray, or blue-colored skin or lips
  • Significant worsening of symptoms

go to your nearest Emergency Department (UCMC Emergency Department, 513-584-1000) or call emergency services (911) and let them know you are very ill and may have COVID-19. 

If you are sick or worried about your illness and would like to see a provider, contact your healthcare provider or students may call UHS at 513-556-2564.

COVID-19 Vaccine

COVID-19 vaccination is available to members of the campus community through UC Health, call 513-584-DOSE (3673) for details, visit vaccines.gov to find a vaccine provider near you.