UA has numerous measures in place to prevent the spread of coronavirus, including isolating those who have tested positive or are suspected of having COVID-19, and recommending those who have come in close contact with a positive individual to quarantine.
Isolation occurs when a student tests positive for COVID-19. Students who test positive or are symptomatic following a suspected exposure will be immediately moved to an isolation space on campus or are given the option to return home. Students who live off campus should stay home.
- During isolation, students are not permitted to have direct contact with individuals outside of isolation.
Students remain in isolation for at least 10 days after symptoms first appeared or they tested positive. To be released from isolation, all symptoms must be resolved, and the student must be fever-free for 24 hours without taking fever-reducing medication.
Students who isolate on campus will be assigned to one of several designated facilities. Food is delivered daily and includes a hot meal for dinner, and breakfast and lunch items for the next day. Upon arrival, students must complete a short survey to opt into meal delivery. Special dietary accommodations can be arranged through the survey.
Isolation facilities are monitored to ensure safety and compliance.
- Individuals who violate isolation directives will face sanctions from the Office of Student Conduct, including potential suspension.
Students who isolate off-campus should use contact-free delivery services for groceries and food. Students who have tested positive should not have direct contact with anyone until cleared to return to campus.
Quarantine occurs when a student believes they have been in close contact with someone who has tested positive for COVID-19. Most students are able to self-quarantine in place for 14 days.
- During the quarantine period, students should stay at home or in their residence hall room for 14 days; check their temperature twice a day and watch for any COVID-19 symptoms; and avoid contact with others.
Students who believe they have come in close contact with someone with COVID-19 should contact the UA COVID-19 Support Program at 205-348-CV19 (205-348-2819). Students will be monitored by the support team during quarantine and should immediately report the onset of any symptoms so they can be moved to isolation.
More information on isolation and quarantine protocols is online. An easy-to-follow decision tree will guide students through the steps to take if exposed, are symptomatic or have tested positive.