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 to reflect the end of the federal COVID-19 public health emergency declaration on May 11, 2023.
What to do if you test positive COVID-19?
Individuals who test positive for COVID-19 must isolate themselves from others for at least 5 full days (day 0 is the first day of symptoms or the day of the positive test for asymptomatic persons). To end isolation after 5 days, you must have improving symptoms with no fever. Wear a well-fitting mask when around others at home, in class, and in public for an additional 5 days.
Individuals who are severely ill with COVID-19 should isolate themselves for at least 10 days 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.
- 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.
- Report your positive status to this form including your affiliation status (faculty, staff, resident student, commuter student) and your expected end of isolation date. This information assists the Stay Safe team with monitoring infection rates within the community.
- 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 up to date with COVID-19 vaccines.
COVID-19 vaccines are effective at protecting people from getting seriously ill. Vaccines can offer added protection to people who had 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 buy masks?
We recommend you always have masks on hand in case you learn that you have been exposed or have COVID-19 symptoms. Masks are widely available at most stores.
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. The State of Minnesota offers free test kits which are widely available at most stores such as the Walgreens located at Franklin and Nicollet.
MCAD will continue to monitor the COVID-19 situation and adjust these measures as needed. For any questions, please contact staysafe@mcad.edu.