Dear UD community:

In light of the CDC’s updated recommendations regarding individuals with respiratory viruses, including COVID-19, the University of Delaware is updating its COVID-19 policies, effective April 15, 2024. 

Isolation and masking

Individuals who test positive for COVID-19 are no longer required to isolate for five days. This is consistent with CDC guidance announced in March 2024. Moving forward, they will be advised to stay away from others (remaining out of classes and public spaces, for example) and receive to-go meals until their symptoms have improved and they have been fever-free for 24 hours without the use of fever-reducing medication. Once meeting these criteria, individuals may return to normal activities while wearing a well-fitted mask for at least five days. Students, faculty, and staff should return to class, work and/or other activities based on these recommendations. 

Exposure

Individuals who are exposed to someone with COVID-19 must monitor their condition for symptoms, then test if symptoms develop, consistent with the CDC’s revised guidance. (Previously, masking was required during this period.)

Required student documentation

Students who test positive for COVID-19 should communicate directly with their professor(s) to return to class based on symptoms, when they are without a fever for 24 hours and when their symptoms have resolved or improved. (Previously, students were required to upload to their UD Health Portal the results of an at-home rapid antigen test or a community test.)

Additional recommendations

If you have symptoms of a respiratory virus, take precautions to prevent spread, including masking, hand hygiene and improved air ventilation (open windows, use a fan, meet outdoors, etc.). If you have risk factors for severe illness, see Student Health or your healthcare provider for possible treatment to help lower your risk of severe disease, hospitalization, and death. Stay up to date with immunizationsagainst respiratory viruses. COVID-19 and influenza vaccines are available to students at Student Health Services or local pharmacies. COVID-19 home antigen test kits are available for purchase on campus at the Student Health Dispensary or Wellbeing Vending machine in Perkins. 

More specific policies may apply in certain scenarios (children’s campus and healthcare settings, for example). This guidance will be communicated directly to those segments of the UD community. 

Thank you for your continued commitment to preserving your individual health and prioritizing the wellness of our entire campus community.