The University of Saint Francis is committed to ensuring a safe and healthy environment on-campus to the greatest extent possible. The following guidelines will be in place for all students until further notice. These guidelines are based on local, state, and national guidance, specifically the Center for Disease Control, the State of Indiana, the Allen County Health Commissioner, and Parkview Health.

“Home” COVID-19 test kit results are not to be used for USF reporting.

Allen County Board of Health excerpt: “Home tests are not reported to the health department like laboratory tests, and cannot be verified as far as technique nor how they were administered like in a testing facility, and are therefore not included in the daily or overall case numbers in the state of Indiana. Since there is no way to verify the validity of the test, our recommendation is not to accept these as confirmed cases in the school or work environment at this time.” See FAQs for more information.

Practicing Behaviors that Reduce Spread

Hand Hygiene and Respiratory Etiquette

• Handwashing with soap and water for at least 20 seconds is one of the most effective ways to protect yourself and others, and to reduce spread. Wash your hands thoroughly and frequently.
• Alcohol-based hand sanitizer stations will be provided across campus for your use.
• Cover your mouth with a tissue (when possible) when you cough and sneeze. Carry tissues with you if possible. Used tissues should be thrown in the trash and hands washed immediately with soap and water for at least 20 seconds.

Cloth Face Coverings

• In general, the University of Saint Francis will not require face masks, but strongly encourages the practice to continue for the safety of all on campus.
• Face coverings are meant to protect other people in case the wearer is unknowingly infected but does not have symptoms. Do it for the people around you.

Other Everyday Measures

• Review the following resources from the CDC
  • Everyday Protective Measures
  • Stop the Spread

Maintaining Healthy Environments

Cleaning and Social Distancing

• Professional cleaning and disinfection across campus will be enhanced and increased.
• Common space in academic buildings will have restrictions. More information will be provided on-site.
• Maintain a 6-ft distance between you and other people to the best of your ability.

Should You Come to Campus and Class?

Students who are ill are encouraged to stay home.  Students who have a fever should not return to campus until they have been fever free for at least 24 hours without the use of fever-reducing medications. Students should refer to Indiana Department of Health Quarantine and Isolation Guidance recommendations if they have COVID symptoms or test positive.

When To Return to Class

Students should refer to the Indiana Department of Health Quarantine and Isolation Guidance recommendations unless a written alternate diagnosis is provided by a medical professional. Always follow the instruction of a medical professional.