Fall 2023 COVID reminders

September 7, 2023

As we enter fall, we can expect to see cases of respiratory illnesses like influenza and COVID rise in our community. Influenza and COVID remain health concerns, especially for vulnerable populations. 

We are a mask-friendly community. If you prefer to wear a mask, have a medical condition that puts you at higher risk, or care for someone who is, please do so. If you are not feeling well, it is always a courtesy and good practice to wear a mask to limit the possible spread to others of COVID, the flu, or even the common cold.

Thank you for continuing to follow these good health practices to protect everyone in our community: 

  • use hand-sanitizer/wash your hands frequently
  • stay home when you are sick
  • test for COVID if you feel ill or have a fever

Students may either use home kits, which are available at local retailers, or make an appointment at Ebersole Health and Wellbeing Center to see the nurse during clinic hours.

Faculty and staff may either use home tests or make an appointment with their medical provider.

If faculty, staff, or students test positive for COVID, please email student_health@cornellcollege.edu and you will receive instructions for isolating. We ask that you let your close contacts know your status.

We will share information on COVID boosters and their availability locally as soon as we have that information for the campus community. 

Flu vaccinations are already available from local pharmacies and health care providers. Cornell is sponsoring on-campus flu vaccinations for students and employees administered by Hy-Vee again this year. Faculty and staff, please see the Aug. 31, 2023, email from Dawn Frey, subject line On-Campus Flu Vaccinations, for details. Students see the Sept. 5 email, subject line 2023 flu shots for students.

Questions may be directed to student_health@cornellcollege.edu.