Following the CDC’s COVID-19 guidance, Minnesota COVID-19 Response, and Minnesota Department of Health Planning and Response for Institutions of Higher Education, MCAD has updated its policies and procedures.
What to do if you test positive COVID-19?
If you have respiratory symptoms or test positive for COVID-19, you should remain at home and away from others. You can return to normal activities when, for at least 24 hours, both are true:
- Your symptoms are getting better overall, and
- You have not had a fever and are not using fever-reducing medication.
When returning to normal activities, additional precautions should be taken over the next 5 days, such as increasing handwashing and hygiene, wearing a mask, practicing physical distancing while around others, and/or testing when you will be around others indoors.
Individuals who are severely ill with COVID-19 should isolate themselves and consult with a healthcare provider before ending isolation.
Review CDC’s most current guidance for additional information and precautions.
Who should you notify if you test positive for COVID-19?
- Staff and Faculty who test positive for COVID-19 are expected to notify their supervisor and Human Resources.
- Students who test positive for COVID-19 should work with their faculty and notify Student Affairs. You may also refer to the MCAD Student Handbook.
- Notify anyone you might have exposed.
What to do if you have COVID-19 symptoms or suspect you have COVID-19?
Individuals with symptoms or suspect they have COVID-19, regardless of their vaccination status, should isolate themselves even if they do not know if they have been in close contact with COVID-19. These individuals should take a COVID-19 test immediately.
What to do if you have been exposed to COVID-19 per CDC Guidance?
If you were exposed to COVID-19 or have been told that you were exposed, regardless of your vaccination status, you should take the following steps:
- Wear a high-quality mask for 10 days.
- Get a COVID-19 test after 5 days.
- If symptoms develop, get tested immediately.
Vaccination Policy
As of June 2023, MCAD does not require students or employees to provide proof of vaccination against COVID-19, but recommends that everyone stay updated with COVID-19 vaccines.
COVID-19 vaccines are effective at protecting people from getting seriously ill. Vaccines can offer added protection to people who have COVID-19, including protection against being hospitalized from a new infection.
Masking Policy
Masks are not required on the MCAD campus. We will continue to honor and respect any individual who chooses to wear a mask.
Where to purchase COVID tests kits?
We recommend you always have COVID-19 test kits on hand in case you have been exposed or have symptoms. Tests are available for purchase at any pharmacy, such as the CVS Drug Store located at Franklin and Nicollet.