Respiratory viruses commonly cause illnesses such as flu and COVID-19. These are some actions you can take to protect yourself and others.
Stay up to date with COVID-19 vaccines. Vaccines significantly reduce the risk of getting very sick, being hospitalized, or dying from COVID-19. Information about available updated COVID-19 boosters will be coming later this Fall. Flu Vaccine appointments can be scheduled later in September.
Practice good hygiene - cover your coughs and sneezes, wash or sanitize your hands often and clean frequently touched surfaces.
Recognizing COVID-19 symptoms
COVID-19 symptoms can vary widely. It is important to recognize upper respiratory infection (URI) symptoms so you can take appropriate action.
Symptoms may appear 2 - 14 days after exposure to a virus. Some individuals may experience mild symptoms, while others, especially those with underlying health conditions, may develop more severe symptoms.
If you are feeling ill, follow the guidance from the CDC’s recommendations and updated guidance to keep yourself and your community protected.
On Campus Testing Options for COVID-19
Free At-Home COVID-19 test kits are available for pick up in the upper and lower-level lobbies at the Waddell Center for Student Health & Wellbeing. If you utilize one of these tests or other at home test options and obtain a positive result you should follow the CDC’s recommendations and updated guidance while you recover from your illness.
Student Health medical providers can order specific tests to diagnose respiratory illnesses. The costs of these tests depend on the specific test ordered. Medical evaluation can be scheduled by calling 704-687-7400. If you have tested positive with a home test, a medical clinic appointment is not medically necessary.
Care Instructions for COVID-19
For most otherwise healthy young adults, symptomatic treatment is advised. For information on taking care of your UPPER RESPIRATORY symptoms, click here.
If you have an underlying medical condition, have lingering or unresolved symptoms, or begin to experience more serious symptoms, schedule an appointment at Student Health or with your healthcare provider.
If you are exposed to someone who tests positive for COVID-19, quarantine is not required. You should monitor for any symptoms that develop. If you develop symptoms, you should test immediately. If the test is negative an additional test is advised at least 24 hours after symptoms start. If no symptoms develop, you can test five days after exposure. Wearing a mask is advised up to 10 days after exposure.
If you have questions or concerns, you may call 704-687-7400 and speak to a nurse or message a nurse via the patient portal.
Communicating with Instructors
Communicate with your instructors when you will be unable to attend class. Most instructors provide instructional options for students who need to miss class.
Instructors are encouraged to work directly with students to determine the best approach to missed classes and make-up assignments. Instructors are encouraged to review current guidance regarding COVID-19 management and make classroom management decisions based on this guidance.
Learn more about the University Approved Absence policy.
UNC Charlotte Student Health does not provide class excuse letters for routine illnesses or injuries.