COVID-19 Information

COVID-19 is a disease caused by the SARS-CoV-2 virus.

Updated Guidance

On March 1, 2024, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention updated its COVID isolation guidance. SUNY Oneonta expects all students who test positive for COVID-19 to follow the CDC’s isolation guidelines for respiratory viruses and the Otsego County Health Department’s guidance.

COVID Symptoms & Testing

Presenting symptoms are like those of the flu and may include fevers or chills, shortness of breath or difficulty breathing, cough, sore throat, new loss of taste or smell, fatigue, congestion or runny nose, headaches, body aches, nausea or vomiting and/or diarrhea. Please call the Health and Wellness Center for an appointment if you are feeling ill.

If you are having severe symptoms or are in a high-risk group, be sure to test early and contact the health center or your healthcare provider so you can get treatment as quickly as possible. If it is after hours and you are having severe symptoms, testing and acute care are also available in the community at Well Now and Convenient Care clinics. (Emergencies and after-hours concerns). Although the guidance is the same for all respiratory viruses, it is helpful to test to know what someone is sick with because testing can prevent transmission.

There are antivirals available to treat COVID-19 or influenza. Antivirals have been shown to reduce disease severity in several different groups. These are only available by prescription, so it is important to make an appointment with a healthcare provider if you want antiviral medication.

Preventing COVID 19

The best way to prevent COVID is to get vaccinated and stay up to date with the vaccine. The COVID vaccine is available at local pharmacies. Taking everyday actions to reduce the spread of COVID include avoiding close contact with people who are sick, covering your mouth when you cough or sneeze, washing your hands often, and avoiding touching your face.