TO: Campus Community
FR: Risk Management and Safety Services
As spring approaches, our community is experiencing an increase in common illnesses, including the cold, flu, strep throat, and COVID. While there has been significant focus over the past few years on preventing and responding to COVID, keeping our campus healthy, regardless of the illness, depends on all of us practicing safe habits.
In January 2024, the State of California updated its recommendations to allow those who are COVID-positive and fever-free to return to work, school, and social activities, just as they would with other illnesses without mandatory isolation. This change has been a relief to some and has caused anxiety for others. After speaking to many of you, we decided this was a good time to review our recommendations to ensure we do all we can to best support each other.
- If you are sick, please stay home to get well and avoid spreading illnesses.
- If you are sick, especially when experiencing respiratory symptoms such as coughing or sneezing, we strongly recommend you wear a mask to protect those around you.
- Prevent illness by practicing good hygiene, getting enough sleep, drinking lots of fluids, and consuming a nutritious diet.
- Please do not assume someone is wearing a mask because they are sick. While SSU does not require masks, masks are welcome in all settings.
- Consult with your healthcare provider and consider vaccination against common illnesses.
As students, faculty, employees, and community members, we hold the keys to contributing to what makes SSU vibrant and active. By taking the steps above and accommodating those who are ill when possible, we can reduce the risk of spreading illness to others.
Additional COVID Information
Cal-OSHA has specific requirements for employees related to the management of COVID. Employees, including student employees, must report all COVID cases to the university. Confidential reports may be made using the COVID Case Survey. Employees are permitted to return to work once fever-free. However, they must wear a mask for up to 10 days. When you report your COVID case, Environmental Health & Safety will provide you with detailed return-to-work information, including the dates you must wear a mask. For more information on reporting employee COVID cases, please visit our website.
For additional information specific to COVID, please visit any of the following websites:
- Student information
- Faculty information (classroom management)
- Employee information
The COVID Monitoring and Compliance website remains the central point for additional resources. Should you have any further questions, please contact the COVID Monitoring Team (covid.monitoring@sonoma.edu) or the Student Health Center (health@sonoma.edu).