MSMC COVID Policy

COVID-19 Policy

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) updated their respiratory illness guidelines and the Orange County Department of Health has adopted these changes. With this in mind, Mount Saint Mary College is updating its COVID-19 policy for students.  

Mount Saint Mary College continues to monitor public health conditions. If it is deemed necessary for the safety of our students and the surrounding community, the college may amend this policy in the future. 

IF YOU FEEL ILL

• COVID or COVID-like respiratory virus symptoms can include fever, chills, fatigue, cough, runny nose, and headache. If you are feeling any of these symptoms, it is best to stay home or in your dorm and rest. For any students that aren’t feeling well, contact health services for guidance. Click this link for the full updated Respiratory Virus Guidance and information from the CDC.
• In lieu of a five-day quarantine period, students can return to class when their symptoms are improving overall AND they have not had a fever for at least 24 hours, without the use of ever-reducing medication.
• Students will no longer need an email from Health Services to return to classes.
• When returning to their normal activities, students must take added precautions over the following five days, including wearing a mask and monitoring their symptoms. Taking a COVID test on day five is recommended.
• Contact your professors as soon as possible for illness-related absences.

For any illness, including COVID, students can contact Health Services during business hours at 845-569-3152 for help. If it’s after hours, students can contact Security at 845-569-3200. 

VACCINATIONS

While COVID-19 remains a concern, the Mount is no longer requiring COVID-19 vaccinations or boosters for students. However, the college still recommends vaccinations and boosters as a precaution. 

Note that specific academic programs, such as Nursing, require a COVID-19 vaccine and at least one booster in order to participate in clinical/field work or other mandatory activities.

TIPS TO STAY HEALTHY

• Wash your hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, especially before eating, after using the bathroom, and after blowing your nose.
• If you cannot wash your hands, use alcohol-based hand sanitizer.
• Cover your mouth when you sneeze or cough.
• Wearing a mask can provide extra protection against not only COVID, but other illness as well.