While it may no longer be the point in the pandemic where masks are required at all times, that does not mean that COVID-19 has gone away. In fact, there have been several reported cases of COVID-19 among the student population at Doane in addition to other respiratory illnesses such as influenza.
In an effort to prevent further spread and to remind the Doane community of illness protocol, Health and Wellness Director Andreea Baker sent out an email to all Crete students. For students who have been exposed to COVID-19, they should mask immediately. Masking should last through the 10th day after the exposure. While masking, those exposed should self-monitor for symptoms such as fever, cough, sore throat, shortness of breath and more. Those who develop symptoms will need to test. Otherwise, a test should occur on day six after an exposure.
The Student Health Office offers free COVID tests, otherwise, Walmart sells the tests.
For those who test negative, masks will continue needing to be worn.
Those who test positive will need to self-isolate for 5 days after symptoms start or the positive test. Students with a positive test are encouraged to go home if at all possible, otherwise isolate in their residence hall room. Close contacts should be notified and follow the direct exposure procedure.
Baker encourages all who have symptoms to get tested. It may take up to 5 days to test positive. Therefore, students with symptoms are encouraged to wear a mask even if they have tested negative.
Extra masks are available in the Student Health Office or in Baker’s office room 140 in Perry Campus Center.
Ways to prevent illness in addition to masking include frequently washing hands, staying home when feeling ill, drinking plenty of water and getting an adequate amount of sleep at night.
Any questions can be directed to Baker at Andreea.baker@doane.edu or Nurse Jody Yank at jody.yank@doane.edu.
