COVID-19 Frequently Asked Questions

Coronavirus, also known as COVID-19, is a respiratory illness that can spread from person to person. Symptoms include fever, cough and difficulty breathing. Symptoms may appear in as few as 2 days or as long as 14 days after exposure. The virus that causes COVID-19 primarily spreads between people in close contact when an infected person coughs, sneezes or talks. You might also get the virus if you touch something with the virus on it, and then touch your mouth, nose, or eyes. 

GET VACCINATED

The best way to protect yourself and your loved ones from COVID-19 is to get vaccinated. Find information about vaccination options here: https://www.chicago.gov/city/en/sites/covid-19/home.html

Vaccination Requirements

Up to date COVID-19 vaccination is highly recommended for all students, faculty, and staff.

“Up to date” means a person has received all recommended vaccines & boosters when eligible. Staying up to date on COVID vaccines is the best way to protect yourself and others from variants.

MCC follows updated CDC guidance on respiratory viruses.

The link https://www.cdc.gov/respiratory-viruses/guidance/faq.html

While there is no mandatory isolation period, please follow the following guidelines to determine if you should isolate yourself:

• If you have flu-like symptoms, including fever, cough, and difficulty breathing, stay home until fully recovered (no fever for 24 hours without medication) and wear a well-fitted mask like KN95 or similar for at least 5 days afterwards.​
• If you have cold-like symptoms (respiratory issues but no fever), wear a well-fitted mask like KN95 or similar until symptoms resolve plus additional 5 days. No isolation is required.
• If you test positive for Covid-19 and have symptoms, follow the guidance above depending on the symptoms (flu-like vs. cold-like)
• If you test positive for Covid-19 and have no symptoms, wear a well-fitted mask like KN95 or similar for 5 days. No isolation is required.

Email campussafety@mccollege.edu if you have any questions.

Are masks required on campuses?

(Updated 5/06/2024)

• Masks are optional in classrooms, labs, student resource centers, the library, and all other spaces across campus.
• Unvaccinated and immunocompromised individuals are advised to continue wearing a well-fitted mask indoors if social distancing is not possible during respiratory disease season.
• Students attending externship should follow health and safety guidelines in place at their site.

When should I test?  

Anyone, including people who are fully vaccinated, should consider getting tested: 

• If you develop symptoms, or, 
• After an exposure.