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COVID-19 Information

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COVID-19 Symptoms

For urgent COVID-19 symptoms such as chest pain or shortness of breath, please seek immediate medical attention. If you have symptoms: wear a mask and take a Rapid Antigen Test, 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 24–48 hours.



For questions or concerns, call the Nurse Advice Line at (831) 459-2591.

What are COVID-19 symptoms I should look out for?

COVID-19 can feel like a cold, allergies, or the flu and includes the following symptoms: • Fever or chills • Cough • Shortness of breath or difficulty breathing • Fatigue • Muscle or body aches • Headache • New loss of taste or smell • Sore throat • Congestion or runny nose • Nausea or vomiting • Diarrhea 


When should I test for COVID-19?
  1. If you have any symptoms of COVID-19: Test immediately, regardless of your COVID-19 vaccination status. If your test is negative but you continue to have symptoms, test again 24–48 hours later. Low amounts of virus early in infection can be missed by a test, and the test can be positive a few days later.
  2. If you have had close contact with someone with COVID-19: Test when notified of exposure and 3–5 days after exposure, even if you have no symptoms. Test immediately if symptoms develop.
  3. Consider testing before and 3–5 days after a gathering, a large event or travel, especially if you are going to be around people who are higher risk (older adults, immunocompromised, unvaccinated people).
My roommate/housemate is isolating in place after testing positive for COVID; what do I need to do?

Please visit Guidelines for Close Contacts Sharing a Living/Sleeping Space with a Positive COVID-19 Case. 

 

COVID-19 Testing

Preventing the spread of respiratory viruses

Anyone with respiratory symptoms (e.g., cough, runny nose, and/or sore throat), must still wear a mask when visiting UCSC Student Health. Because masks help protect the mask wearer and others from communicable disease exposure, SHS continues to strongly recommend their use in all healthcare facilities. 

Follow the CDC guidance for Preventing Spread of Respiratory Viruses When You're Sick.

Vaccination Policy

Where to get a COVID-19 Vaccine

Flu and COVID-19 Vaccine Clinic on October 22—24, 2024. Sign up for our clinic at the Stevenson Event Center! 

Students can also schedule an immunization appointment at the health center for the updated Moderna COVID-19 vaccine. UC SHIP covers the cost; fees apply for others.

Fees:

  • $165 for COVID-19 (includes admin fee) 

All students are welcome. As an alternative for students without UC SHIP, we recommend contacting an in-network off-campus provider covered under your health insurance to ensure the lowest cost for the vaccine. Here are a few suggestions for off-campus pharmacies or visit www.vaccines.gov 

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