Public Health

Novel Coronavirus (COVID-19)

With the end of the public health emergency declaration, the University of Cincinnati continues to move toward normal operations.  As such, reporting of COVID-19 cases through the COVID Check App or email is no longer required.  We will no longer be conducting contact tracing or case management for on-campus COVID-19 cases. 

All students, faculty and staff are expected to continue to follow current CDC guidance regarding symptom evaluation, testing, isolation and mask use.  For questions after reviewing the below information and the CDC website or for other concerns, please contact your primary healthcare provider or, for students, contact University Health Services.

COVID-19 is a highly contagious viral disease caused by SARS-CoV-2 that produces respiratory symptoms similar to a cold or the flu.  Although the federal COVID-19 Public Health Emergecy declaration ended on May 11, 2023, actions to protect those at highest risk of severe COVID-19 are still critically important.

Stay Home if Sick

If you feel sick and have any of the following symptoms stay home and get tested:

  • Cough
  • Fever
  • Sore throat
  • Vomiting
  • Diarrhea

Testing & Treatment

If you are symptomatic or exposed to someone with COVID-19, it is important to choose the right type of test for your circumstance. There are two types of test: PCR and Antigen.

If you test positive for COVID-19, have worsening symptoms or a history of a chronic illness, please reach out to your healthcare provider about next steps.

Learn more from the CDC about what you should do and when.

Student Testing & Treatment at University Health Services

UC students can get tested and receive treatment for COVID-19 at University Health Services by calling 513-556-2564 to make an appointment. Walk-in appointments are not accepted.  COVID-19 Rapid Antigen tests are available at the University Health Services Pharmacy for $20 (box of two tests). Free test kits can also be ordered via covid.gov/tests.

University Health Services
Lindner Athletic Center
2751 O'Varsity Way
Cincinnati, OH 45221
(located between Nippert Stadium and Fifth Third Arena)

Testing for UC students, as well as faculty and staff, is also available at local health centers, pharmacies and drugstores. Additionally, COVID-19 tests are offered through the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services' Test to Treat program. Find a location near you.

Faculty and staff that test positive for COVID-19 are strongly encouraged to seek treatment from their medical provider.  

Exposure & Masking Guidelines

If you test positive for COVID-19 or have had close contact with an individual who has COVID-19, it is important to take the appropriate precautions to prevent spreading it to others. COVID-19 is highly contagious. Recommendations from the CDC include masking.  

Wearing a well-fitting mask consistently and correctly can prevent the spread of COVID-19 and other respiratory illnesses. If you have been exposed to COVID-19 you should also wear a well-fitting mask around others for 10 days from your last exposure, regardless of vaccination status or history of prior infection.

It is important to support those within our community who choose to wear a protective facial mask in public areas. Masking is a personal choice.  

Vaccination

The university strongly recommends faculty, staff and students receive COVID-19 vaccines. It is important to note that the university will continue to consult with medical and public health experts and may change our responses as needed.

COVID-19 vaccines are available through many medical providers and pharmacies:  

  • UC Health is offering vaccine appointments at multiple locations Monday through Friday from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Call 513-584-DOSE (3673) to schedule an appointment.
  • You can also check vaccines.gov and gettheshot.coronavirus.ohio.gov to find a nearby vaccine provider and to schedule an appointment.