Health & Safety Active Protocols

Health & Safety Active Protocols

• Does DeSales have a plan for Monkeypox?

  While experts are continuing to develop guidance on how best to contain Monkeypox, the CDC notes the following:

  • Monkeypox causes flu-like symptoms and a rash.
    • Until rashes caused by the disease are fully healed, a person is still considered infectious. The healing process typically takes two-four weeks.
  • Anyone can contract Monkeypox through close, personal, often skin-to-skin contact with those infected. Skin-to-skin contact may include touching an infected person's:
    • Rash
    • Scabs
    • Bodily fluids
    • Respiratory secretions (through face-to-face contact)
  • Additionally, Monkeypox spreads through objects such as fabrics (clothing, bedding, or towels) and surfaces that infected individuals have used.

  Individuals with Monkeypox need to isolate. Please contact the University Health Center at 610-282-1100 ext. 1776 for guidance.

  Please visit the CDC’s website for more information on how to lower your risk of spreading or contracting Monkeypox.

  We will continue to monitor the latest guidance on Monkeypox from the CDC as well as local health experts and keep you posted on any changes to the active protocol on campus.

• Do I need to be vaccinated against COVID-19 to be on campus?

  Although obtaining a COVID-19 vaccination and booster(s) is not required, we highly recommend it. It remains our most effective safeguard against developing serious illness after contracting the virus.

• Is there an active mask mandate on campus?

  DeSales University is mask-optional for all students, employees, and visitors.

  • • In general, individuals are not required to wear a face covering. However;
      • We ask that community members continue to wear a mask and get tested if they are demonstrating symptoms of COVID-19 or have been directly exposed. 
    •  Of course, you are free to always use a mask, if preferred.

  As a community bound by Salesian solidarity, let us respect each other’s decision whether to mask. We remain committed to following the research and recommendations from the CDC and other health officials as we continue to monitor our response to this virus. 

  Masking protocols are subject to change as new data from the CDC emerges.

• I was exposed to COVID-19, can I get a test on campus?

  The University will offer symptomatic COVID-19 testing to all full-time students, faculty, and staff members via the Wellness Center. Availability of testing will be dependent on supply and the assessment of symptoms by the Wellness Center staff.

  Symptomatic Testing Hours

  • Monday-Friday: 9AM-4PM
    Call 610-282-1100, ext. 1776 to speak with a health professional.
  • Outside of those hours
    find a free testing site near you

  If the test result is positive, follow the protocol for testing positive.

  If the test result is negative:

  • Regardless of vaccination status individuals should wear a mask for 10 days around others and consider repeat testing.

  If you are asymptomatic:

  • Regardless of vaccination status individuals should wear a mask for 10 days and continue to monitor for symptoms.

• What do I do if I test positive for COVID-19?

  If you have tested positive for COVID-19, you are required to isolate for 5 days.

  • If after isolating for five days your symptoms are resolving (you must be fever-free for 24 hours without the use of fever reducing medication) or you are asymptomatic, you may resume regular activities but must wear a mask for 5 additional days both indoors and outdoors.

  Protocol for Isolation:

  • The University will not house students living within 300 miles from campus who must isolate.
  • If you live more than 300 miles from campus and require isolation, the University will assist you with finding suitable accommodation.

• My classes meet on campus. May I Zoom into my class?

  Except for inclement weather procedures, only students requiring isolation due to the COVID-19 virus may utilize the Zoom modality for classroom attendance; verification will be issued by Wendy Kalamar in the Wellness Center.

  Note: This protocol is for students enrolled in traditional, on campus courses. Students enrolled in online, hybrid, or Flex courses should follow their instructor's guidance.

• Do I have to use available time off for COVID-19 related absence from work?

  Faculty & Staff:

  • The University's COVID-19 leave policy has expired. Employees are encouraged to speak with their supervisor and/or human resources with questions.