University of Maine at Presque Isle COVID-19 Statement1
COVID-19 is an infectious disease caused by the coronavirus SARS-CoV-2. The virus is transmitted person-to-person through respiratory droplets that are expelled when breathing, talking, eating, coughing, or sneezing. Additionally, the virus is stable on surfaces and can be transmitted when someone touches a contaminated surface and transfers the virus to their nose or mouth. When someone becomes infected with COVID-19 the symptoms can range from mild to severe and can even be fatal. During this global pandemic, it is imperative that all students, faculty, and staff abide by the safety protocols and guidelines set forth by the University to ensure the safety of our campus. The All Owls In Pledge ensures we each understand the vital role we play in protecting the health of one another, our community, and our university.
Contingency plans: Classes will be held in various modalities, to offer flexibility, compassion, and empathy during these unprecedented times. Under certain circumstances, students or instructors may need to miss classes or in-person classes may be disrupted. Students should notify their instructor if they are unable to attend an in-person or online class and will not be penalized for missing class due to illness or need to care for a family member affected by COVID-19. If a disruption occurs, your instructor will provide communication and contingency plans.
Symptom checker: The symptoms of COVID-19 can range from mild to severe, and even people with mild symptoms may transmit the virus to others. Students should monitor for the following symptoms daily: fever (temperature >100.4F/38.0C) or chills, new cough, loss of taste or smell, shortness of breath/difficulty breathing, sore throat, diarrhea, nausea, or vomiting, or the onset of new, otherwise unexplained symptoms such as headache, muscle or body aches, fatigue, or congestion/runny nose (not associated with allergies).
What to do if you have or suspect you have COVID-19: If you have symptoms of COVID-19 or have been possibly exposed to someone with COVID-19, you should stay home, not interact with others, and contact your health care provider immediately to be tested for COVID-19. You should refrain from attending in-person classes and suspend interactions with others until you are tested. Please notify our Associate Dean of Students, Sarah Coyer (sarah.coyer@maine.edu), as soon as you identify any such symptoms or possible exposure. Prior to receiving test results you should quarantine in your living area according to the Maine CDC guidelines below. Please follow the guidance of your health care professional regarding testing, quarantine, and isolation during the testing process and potential illness period.
What to do if someone you know has or may have COVID-19: If someone you know or that you have had close contact with (defined by the ME CDC as 15 mins or more within 6 feet or less), you should quarantine according to the guidance of the ME CDC and continue to monitor for symptoms. You may be required to quarantine and/or be tested for COVID-19 under these circumstances. You may also have been exposed to COVID-19 by someone you do not know, and it is possible that you could be contacted through contact tracing to determine if you were exposed. Everyone should participate in these discussions to ensure the safety of themselves and those around them.
Maine CDC guidelines
Face coverings: Students must wear multi-layer face coverings in the classroom unless waived by the relevant instructor. Face coverings are also required in individual office spaces unless waived by the relevant employee. Face coverings are optional and welcomed in other indoor and outdoor spaces on campus.
Hand hygiene: Proper hand hygiene is an effective measure to prevent the spread of COVID-19. Students should wash their hands often with soap and water or use a hand sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol, especially after using the bathroom, before eating or drinking, and before and after going to class or university spaces such as the recreation center, library, or dining halls.
If you have questions or would like additional information related to the University of Maine at Presque Isle COVID-19-specific policies or procedures please use the following sources:
1Adapted from statement by Melissa Maginnis, PhD, UMS Scientific Advisory Board
