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COVID-19 FAQs

COVID-19 Known Exposure

COVID-19 Treatment Options

COVID-19 Testing FAQs

COVID-19 Positive Test Results FAQs

COVID-19 Travel FAQs

COVID-19 Vaccine FAQs

COVID-19 and Student Life FAQs

COVID-19 Symptom Checks 

Staff and Faculty FAQs

Questions about coming to work or other issues related specifically to UCSC employees? See the Keep Teaching site for faculty, or Support for Employees for staff.

Additional Questions


COVID-19 Known Exposure

I've been exposed to COVID-19, and I don't have symptoms. What should I do? 

Per California Department of Public Health asymptomatic persons who are known close contacts to someone with COVID-19:

  • Students do not need to quarantine
  • Are required to wear a well-fitting mask around others for a total of 10 days, especially in indoor settings and when near those at higher risk for severe COVID-19 disease. 
  • Consider testing as soon as possible to determine your current infection status; then test again on days 3-5 after your last exposure. If you test negative for COVID, complete another rapid antigen test 24-48 hours after the first negative test, for a total of at least two tests. The CDC advises that multiple negative tests increases the confidence that you are not infected with the virus that causes COVID-19. If you get a negative result on the second test and you are concerned that you could have COVID-19, you may test again 24-48 hours after the second test, consider getting a laboratory molecular-based test, or call your healthcare provider.
Please use the California Department of Public Health’s guidance when informing your close contacts and for the most recent definition of a close contact.


My roommate/housemate is isolating in place after testing positive for COVID - what do I need to do?

Guidelines for Close Contacts Sharing a Living/Sleeping Space with a Positive COVID-19 Case:
Most of our campus community is up-to-date on their vaccinations, and there are more therapeutics available now to reduce the severity of COVID. As we move from a pandemic to an endemic framework, students living in university housing who test positive for COVID-19 will need to isolate in place.

When sharing a living/sleeping area with someone who has tested positive for COVID-19, during their isolation period, follow these recommendations:
  • If you are a known close contact to and living with someone with COVID-19 but do not have symptoms:
    • You do not need to quarantine.
    • Immediately begin wearing a well-fitting mask around others especially in indoor settings, including while sleeping.  
    • Make sure the room has good airflow and follow CDC Guidance for Improving Ventilation in Your Home.
    • Maintain at least 6 feet between beds if possible.
    • Consider testing as soon as possible to determine your current infection status; then test again on days 3-5 after your last exposure. If you test negative for COVID, complete another rapid antigen test 24-48 hours after the first negative test, for a total of at least two tests. The CDC advises that multiple negative tests increases the confidence that you are not infected with the virus that causes COVID-19. If you get a negative result on the second test and you are concerned that you could have COVID-19, you may test again 24-48 hours after the second test, consider getting a laboratory molecular-based test, or call your healthcare provider.
    • Continue wearing your mask until 10 days after the person positive for COVID has ended their isolation period.
    • Please see the California Department of Public Health’s Guidelines , Table 2 for more details.
  • If you have symptoms and test positive, immediately mask, isolate, and contact a medical provider if you need medical assistance. Follow the Positive Test Result Instructions. 
  • If you have symptoms and test negative contact a medical provider to evaluate for other causes.
For any roommates with underlying medical conditions, we may have temporary accommodations available for the period their roommate is in isolation. To discuss these options, please contact Student Health Services via Health e-Messenger: Messages/New Messages/COVID-19 questions.

COVID-19 Treatment Options

What treatment options are available for COVID-19?

Students with certain medical conditions who test positive for COVID-19 may be eligible for COVID-19 antiviral treatments. Contact the SHS Nurse Advice Line to find out more information at: 831-459-2591. 

For more information please visit the California Department of Public Health: Get the Facts on COVID-19 Treatments. 

COVID-19 Testing & Vaccination

I have COVID-19 symptoms but tested negative, what should I do?

If you test negative for COVID and you still have COVID-19 symptoms, complete another rapid antigen test 24-48 hours after the first negative test, for a total of at least two tests. The CDC advises that multiple negative tests increases the confidence that you are not infected with the virus that causes COVID-19.
If you get a negative result on the second test and you are concerned that you could have COVID-19, you may test again 24-48 hours after the second test, consider getting a laboratory molecular-based test, or call your healthcare provider.
 
Where and when do the tests take place?
Free Rapid Antigen Tests (RATs) will continue to be available for all students at the College Housing Offices, Bay Tree Campus Store, the McHenry and Science and Engineering Libraries, and Affiliated Residential Community Housing (ARCH) offices. If you have symptoms: isolate, wear a mask and have a friend or roommate pick up a Rapid Antigen Test for you, or contact your healthcare provider to order a lab test. 

Staff and Faculty can pick up free Rapid Antigen Tests at Bay Tree Campus Store and the McHenry and Science and Engineering Libraries. PCR Testing continues to be available at a variety of locations in Santa Cruz County. Visit the COVID Testing Webpage for more information. 

Accessibility: If you will be unable to collect your own specimen due to a disability, please make an appointment with the Student Health Center by calling (831) 459-2500. We will assist you with the process. 

How much do the tests cost?
  • Rapid Antigen Tests are free for active staff and faculty and enrolled students, including students without UC SHIP.
What’s the difference between symptomatic and asymptomatic tests? 
  • Symptomatic means that you feel ill and have symptoms. For urgent COVID-19 symptoms such as chest pain or shortness of breath, please seek immediate medical attention.

    If you have symptoms: isolate, wear a mask and have a friend or roommate pick up a Rapid Antigen Test for you, or contact your healthcare provider to order a lab test. If the test is positive, view the Positive Test Instructions ». If the test is negative, continue to mask and test again in 48 hours. For questions or concerns, call the Nurse Advice Line at (831) 459-2591.

  • Asymptomatic means that you feel fine and do not have any symptoms. If you have had a recent exposure please view table 2 on this list from CDPH. 
I’ve had COVID-19 recently, should I test until I get a negative result?

Per the California Department of Public Health, people can continue to test positive for COVID-19 on a PCR test for up to 3 months after diagnosis and not be infectious to others once they have met the isolation clearance criteria. For this reason, we recommend that you do not test for COVID with a PCR test for 3 months after your positive test. However, if you develop new symptoms of COVID-19 during this 3 month period, please mask, isolate, test with a rapid antigen test, and contact your healthcare provider.

I've been vaccinated. Do I need to keep wearing masks?

Effective April 10, 2022, masks will not be required for most indoor settings at UC Santa Cruz facilities, and their use will still be strongly recommended for indoor spaces but required in clinical settings, such as the Student Health Center. California Department of Public Health and Cal/OSHA guidelines both state that individuals who test positive for COVID-19 must mask for 10 days following a positive test. As well, asymptomatic exposed individuals must mask for 10 days following an identified close contact to someone with COVID-19.

What if I lost my vaccine card?

You can download a digital copy of your vaccine record on the California Department of Public Health website. Please login to Health e-Messenger , and enter your COVID-19 vaccine type and dates under medical clearances left navigation menu, and then you will be in compliance with the policy.

Do I need to take a COVID test before I leave campus?

If you are planning to travel away from Santa Cruz and its surrounding communities, please review the CDC’s latest recommendations for domestic or international travel. There is a comprehensive list on the CDC website of countries with travel restrictions. If you are traveling, please check with your airline and the country you are going to for testing requirements.

How often should I test?
Please view the COVID-19 Protocol for more information.

I am unable to come to the main campus, how can I get a test?

For a limited time, every U.S. household can again order four, free at-home COVID-⁠19 tests via https://www.covid.gov/tests.

Will you be providing COVID-19 booster shots on campus? Students can call the Health Center at (831) 459-2500 to make an appointment for the COVID-19 booster. Find vaccine providers in your community at Vaccines.gov. 

How do I upload proof of my booster?

Log into Health e-Messenger and navigate to the 'Medical Clearances' tab. Next to 'COVID-19' there should be a green 'Update' button, click it. On the pop-up that will open, upload a photo of your vaccination card and select 'Add Immunization' with the date and type of vaccine you received. Click 'Done' and the information will be saved.

For staff, the experience is slightly different than students, so follow these instructions follow these step by step instructions.

COVID-19 Positive Test Results 

What happens if I get a positive COVID-19 test?

UCSC students and employees who test positive for COVID-19 with a laboratory test or home
test will follow the the Covid-19 Positive Test Instructions for Students, or Positive Test Instructions for Staff/Faculty. The campus will not notify your close contacts. All students who test positive (either on campus or off) are strongly encouraged to notify all of their close contacts, including their instructors and roommates, so that they can take the appropriate actions.

Notifying campus of your results:
If you reside in university sponsored housing and test positive through a campus test, home test, or outside clinic, begin isolation protocol immediately. Then, please inform Campus Housing of your results by completing this form. You will be contacted by a staff member with additional information and directions about isolating. Due to high volume you may not be contacted right away.

If you reside off campus, you will not be contacted by staff and should isolate in your current location. Do not wait to be contacted by Campus to begin isolation. Please follow the Covid-19 Positive Test Instructions for Students, or Positive Test Instructions for Staff/Faculty. We encourage you to notify your close contacts so their risks and needs can be assessed.

How long will I have to stay home?

Please visit the COVID positive test instructions for guidelines. Your provider may have additional guidelines for you.

How long will my test remain positive? Do I need another test?
After your isolation period is over you are no longer infectious to other people, but a PCR test before 3 months could show a false positive. Because of this we recommend you do not take a PCR test again for 3 months. However, if you develop new symptoms during this time frame you should seek medical evaluation.

Is there help for me on campus if I need groceries or meals while in isolation?

Please visit the COVID positive test instructions for information. 

What should I do if tested positive and my symptoms are getting worse?

Call 911 if it's an emergency. During business hours call the SHC Advice Nurse at 831-459-2591. If it's after hours, please see how to get healthcare when the Student Health Center is closed.

Do I have to get a letter to return to work/campus?

In general a letter is not needed. Staff should check with their supervisors regarding return to work. A student's return will depend on the criteria for ending isolation. Students, if you work off-campus and your employer needs a letter from us, log into Health e-Messenger to request a letter. Go to Messages, New Messages, and COVID-19 Questions and make your request. In general, we will respond with your letter within 48 hours. 

If I've tested positive for COVID-19 and have fully recovered, should I keep doing asymptomatic testing?
After your isolation period is over you are no longer infectious to other people, but a PCR test before 3 months could show a false positive. Because of this we recommend you do not take a PCR test again for 3 months. However, if you develop new symptoms during this time frame you should seek medical evaluation.

What will happen to me if I’m done with isolation? How do I know if I have been cleared?

Please refer to the Covid-19 Positive Test Result Instructions for more information.  

COVID-19 Travel

What should I do if I'm currently traveling abroad or will soon return to UCSC?
Any staff or students traveling domestically or internationally should follow the CDC guidelines for travel. 

COVID-19 and Student Life

What should I do if I'm attending a private gathering?
The CDC has published some helpful guidance on how to protect yourself and others. 

What about sex during COVID-19?
SHOP's guide helps you think about the ways you can lower your risk for COVID-19 during sex: COVID-19+Sex

Does vaping increase my risk of COVID-19?
New research shows that vaping and smoking increases risk of COVID-19. Now is a great time to quit. Contact SHOP for free personal support to quit vaping or smoking.
 
What low-risk, fun activities can I do with my friends or family?

There are relatively safe ways for us to be active, social, and entertained. Take a look at how Understanding Your Risk Helps You Make Decisions from the CDC. Individual risk for interacting with others depends on many factors, all of which may not be captured in scenarios listed. 

Can I get or give COVID-19 through a pet? 

See the CDC's guidance on what to do if you have pets.

 COVID-19 Symptom Checks

What are the symptom check questionnaire requirements?
  • Effective Aug. 1, 2022, the daily symptom check questionnaire will no longer be required for employees working on-site at UCSC-owned or leased facilities. Employees should self-assess for symptoms as instructed on the employee COVID-19 support page. 

  • Students are encouraged to continue to self-assess their health status and possible COVID symptoms each day. Completion of the online symptom checker is not required at this time.

Questions?

  • Emergencies: call 911
  • Non-urgent COVID-19 health related questions for students: Log into Health e-Messenger and select Messages > New Message >COVID-19 Questions
  • Employee questions: COVID-19 employee support or contact your primary care provider
  • Other resources: The Santa Cruz County Call Center is available at (831) 454-4242 from M-F / 8 am – 5 pm everyday. 211 website
  • Student Housing FAQs

Back to the SHC COVID-19 Home

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