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Home COVID-19 Updates On-Campus Isolation Information

On-Campus Isolation Information

If have received a positive COVID-19 PCR test and you reside in university housing, you will need to move into isolation housing on campus. Additional information about on-campus isolation is provided below.

Before Isolation

During Isolation

After Isolation

Before Isolation 

(After positive test/screening)

 

  • Process
  • What to take
  • Transportation
  • Accommodations

Process


After you have received a positive COVID-19 PCR test and if you reside in university housing, you will be contacted within 1-3 hours by a Care Coordinator to discuss the isolation process.*

*It is common not to remember all of this information, so it is also in your MyCUHealth portal on the educational tab.

  • If you were tested on campus: You will receive a phone call, text, and email message from the Care Coordinator. This communication will include your isolation room assignment, the 6 steps to isolation, information on meals (including dietary restrictions and/or allergies), transportation (if applicable) and the check-in process.

  • If you were tested off campus: You must report your test results to CU Boulder by uploading them to the MyCUHealth Portal. After Medical Services has been notified, you will receive a phone call, text, and email message from the Care Coordinator. This communication will include your isolation room assignment, the 6 steps to isolation, information on meals (including dietary restrictions and/or allergies), transportation (if applicable) and the check-in process.

What to take


Before you temporarily relocate to the isolation hall, please return to your residence hall or apartment and collect needed belongings. Prior to entering your hall to collect your belongings, you must wear a face covering, wash/disinfect your hands, and ensure physical distance between yourself and others in the hall. You should plan to collect your belongings as quickly as possible; do not linger or hang out in your room. Please consider packing the following items:

  • Any prescriptions or medications you may need for the duration of isolation
  • Thermometer
  • Spare face coverings
  • Clothes for 7-10 days 
  • Toiletries
  • Phone/computer and chargers
  • Books and study materials
  • Comfort foods/snacks that you already have. Do not go to grocery stores, markets or grab-n-gos.
  • Water bottle
  • Warm blanket and pillow (Please note: although these items are provided in isolation, it may bring comfort to you to have your own items)
  • Hand sanitizer
  • Comfort items that are easily transportable such as books, magazines, journal, and/or sketchpad

One set of linens will be provided upon arrival. This will include sheets, towels, washcloths, blanket and pillow. Spare linens are available at the entrance of each building.

Carts can be checked out by visiting the front desk of your permanent residence hall; please note that the cart must be returned prior to leaving the premises. If you need a cart when you arrive at the isolation hall, please contact the Care Coordinator and one will be provided for you.

Transportation


The Care Coordinator will communicate directly with you about transportation options. Transportation is available Monday-Friday; 2 to 8 p.m. with last pick up at 7:30 p.m. and Saturdays from 12 to 6 p.m. with the last pick up at 5:30 p.m.

  • If you have any approved housing or dining accommodations: please submit a copy of your Notice of Housing Accommodation Decision to healthinfo@colorado.edu. Please note, you are not required to submit any personal medical information; only your formal approval information is needed.
     
  • If you have an approved assistance/emotional support OR service animal: you are still responsible for the animal's well-being. You may choose to leave your animal under the care of an emergency caretaker in non-University housing, or you may bring your animal with you. Please be advised that you will not be able to leave the isolation space to toilet or care for your animal. Arrangements must be made with your emergency caretaker prior to your arrival in isolation.
     
  • If you have any questions about your housing or dining accommodations in the isolation hall: please contact Disability Services at HousingAccommodations@colorado.edu.

During Isolation

(On-Campus Students)

 

  • Information/Arrival in isolation space
  • Outreach
  • My symptoms are worsening
  • Meals
  • 3rd Party Delivery
  • Question about release date
  • Classes
  • Rules/Conduct
  • What to do
  • When to leave your space
  • Feeling lonely/Mental health
  • Cleaning
  • Safety
  • Families with students in isolation
  • Who to contact
  • Mail and Packages

Information


  • Once you arrive at your temporary isolation hall, you will receive a key to your room and a welcome letter that has information related to meals, delivery services, safety and other housing related information. Some additional information can be found at 6 Steps for On-Campus Isolation.

Upon arrival in isolation space


  • A Contact Tracer/Case Investigator will reach out to you as soon as possible to obtain a list of individuals who may have been in close contact with you. Please begin to make your list. It is important that you provide accurate information. The people on your list will only receive general information indicating that they may have been exposed. Your identity will not be shared. 

Outreach


Over the course of your stay in isolation, you will receive multiple calls, texts and emails checking on your well-being and to provide you with important information.

  • Initial Phone Call, Text and Email: You will be notified by a Care Coordinator via phone call, text and email of initial isolation instructions and guidance on where to go, isolation expectations, and meal delivery information.
  • Emails: The Care Coordinator will email you Monday-Friday to check in, communicate any applicable updates, and highlight virtual activities to ensure you stay connected while in isolation. They will also be able to answer any questions and assist in obtaining any resources during your stay.
  • Phone: The Contact Tracer/Case Investigator will contact you to conduct an interview, which will provide you with the anticipated date you are able to leave isolation. You must answer your phone and be willing to take calls from unknown numbers. 
  • Peer Outreach: While in isolation, you have the option to connect with HealthBuffs. HealthBuffs are peer educators who are trained in a variety of health topics and arethere to listen and support you. You can opt to connect via text or Zoom.   

My symptoms are worsening


If you develop symptoms of COVID-19, contact a health provider immediately. You can contact the 24/7 Nurse's Hotline at 303-492-5101 for further assistance.

Seek emergency medical attention (Call 911) if you are showing any of the following symptoms:

  • Trouble breathing
  • Persistent pain or pressure in the chest
  • New confusion
  • Inability to wake or stay awake
  • Bluish lips or face

*This list does not cover all possible symptoms. Please call a health provider for any other symptoms that are severe or concerning to you.

 

Meals


Day 0/Check-in Day

You will receive a box when you first arrive; this box has food for a meal plus a snack. Most students move in the late afternoon hours. The first box is shelf-stable and may not meet all dietary restrictions. You should communicate any dietary restrictions or allergies to the Care Coordinator so Campus Dining Services can adjust the contents to meet your needs.

Day 1-10+

Boxes will include a mix of freshly prepared items, assorted beverages, fruit, and snacks. These boxes are delivered 7 days a week in the morning and provide food for 3 meals, at approximately 2,000–3,000 calories.

Examples:

  • Vegetarian box with a hummus wrap, side salad, 3-4 beverages, apple, applesauce, kiwi, jicama salad, edamame, oatmeal, and snacks.
  • A standard meal box (no dietary needs or allergens) with spaghetti and meatballs, a meat-beans-rice entrée, a side salad, apple, 3-4 beverages, oatmeal, and snacks.
  • Meals are delivered 7 days a week. If you have not received your meals and believe you should have, email dining@colorado.edu.
chips gatorade and other food

Day 0/Check-in Day

You will receive a food box when you first arrive; this box has food for a meal plus a snack. Most students move in the late afternoon hours. The first box ("prearrival" box) is shelf-stable and may not meet all dietary restrictions. Students need to fill out the survey to share their dietary needs and/or allergens so Campus Dining can adjust the contents to meet those needs.

food

Day 1-10+

Boxes will include a mix of freshly prepared items, assorted beverages, fruit, and snacks. These boxes are delivered each day of the week in the morning and provide food for 3 meals, and between 2,000 and 3,000 calories.

Examples:

  • Vegetarian box with a hummus wrap, side salad, 3-4 beverages, apple, applesauce, kiwi, jicama salad, edamame, oatmeal, and snacks.   
  • A standard meal box (no dietary needs or allergens) with spaghetti and meatballs, a meat-beans-rice entrée, a side salad, apple, 3-4 beverages, oatmeal, and snacks.
  • Meals are delivered 7 days a week. If you have not received your meals and believe you should have, email dining@colorado.edu. 

3rd Party Food Delivery

While you are in isolation, if there is a comfort food or other items you need, you may order for delivery of restaurant, groceries, or other items with contactless delivery or ask a friend or family to deliver to you. It is important that you follow these directions: 

  • Ask the individual who is delivering to call you when they arrive outside of your isolation hall. 
  • When they call, wear a face covering and proceed to the isolation lobby. 
  • A table will be outside of the main entrance. The delivery should be placed on the table when you are able to confirm delivery.
  • You may proceed outside to pick up your item. It is important to maintain social distance. 
  • After picking up your delivery, please go directly back to your isolation room. 
  • Please note: CU staff is not able to pick-up a student’s mail and deliver it directly to the hall as there are federal laws regarding mail and delivery. Please ask a friend to pick up your mail and make a contactless delivery at the isolation hall.

3rd Party Delivery


Food

While you are in isolation, you may order contactless delivery or ask a friend or family to deliver items to you. It is important that you follow these directions:

  • Ask the individual who is delivering to call you when they arrive outside of your isolation hall.
  • When they call, wear a face covering and proceed to the isolation lobby.
  • The delivery should be placed near the doors on the table when once you are able to confirm delivery.
  • You may proceed outside to pick up your item. It is important to maintain at least 6 feet apart.
  • After picking up your delivery, please go directly back to your isolation room.

Textbooks, School Supplies and Personal Care Items

  • You may order textbooks, school supplies, personal care items, and technology accessories from the CU Book Store. Orders placed by 2 p.m., Monday-Friday will ship the same day via UPS. Please review the Mail and Packages tab for more information on delivery instructions to your isolation space. Make sure to enter your permanent residence hall address as the shipping address when placing an order. Textbooks, school supplies and technology accessories, up to $1500 per semester, may be charged to your tuition and fee bill.
  • You may also order snacks, over-the-counter medicine and other items from Campus Marketplaces via the Nutrislice app. The Nutrislice app and website will allow you to view menus, place your order and schedule delivery. You’ll then be able to pay with Campus Cash. To download the app, search for Nutrislice through your phone or tablet’s application platform.

Printing

  • Do you need to have something printed? Files can be sent to CU Imaging Services via their website or emailed to eprint@colorado.edu. Your completed print job will be shipped via UPS or FedEx, and most orders placed by 2 p.m. Monday-Friday will ship the same day. Please review the Mail and Packages tab for more information on delivery instructions to your isolation space.
  • More complex print jobs may take longer to complete; please contact CU Imaging Services at eprint@colorado.edu or 303-492-7878 with questions.

Prescriptions

  • Contactless pick-up options are available through the Apothecary at Wardenburg.
  • Courier service is available for most prescriptions, with some restrictions for controlled substances or refrigerated medications. Most over-the-counter and retail items are available too. You must contact the Apothecary at Wardenburg to arrange payment and request contactless delivery. The fee for this service generally ranges between $5-8.

You can email contacttracing@colorado.edu or call 303-735-0017 if you have additional questions regarding your release from isolation. Please leave a message if no one answers. Contact Tracing typically returns calls within one to two business days.

Classes


  • If you have in-person classes or labs while you are in isolation, you may not attend them in person. Contact your faculty members and work with them to let them know you cannot participate in person. 
  • If you have reached out to faculty and still aren’t sure what to do or if your symptoms become more acute and you are looking into additional academic options, please fill out the SSCM referral form and a Case Manager will reach out to you directly to provide assistance and/or connect you with additional support resources.

Rules/Conduct


While in isolation, you must continue to follow campus COVID-19 policies and guidelines, as well as local public health orders and recommendations. 

Any serious public health violations by students, like hosting or attending large gatherings, including in your isolation hall, or breaking isolation guidelines, will result in an immediate 10-day suspension pending adjudication through Student Conduct and Conflict Resolution. If found responsible, the likely consequence will be a suspension for the remainder of the semester.  

 

What to do


We understand that isolation can be lonely and boring. While you are in isolation, the Care Coordinator will reach out regularly to connect you with virtual events and upcoming activities. In addition, here are a few ideas to keep you entertained:

Don’t miss our virtual events. With everything from guided meditation to Netflix parties and trivia, you may choose to use this time to make friends and try something you have never done before.

You can still connect with your residence hall virtually. Check out upcoming events for your hall. 

While you may not be able to leave your isolation space, you can still visit world renowned museums, national parks and world landmarks. 

Catch up with friends and family through video chat, texting, or even writing a letter.

When to leave your space


You may leave your assigned room for the following reasons. When you do, you must wear a face covering and maintain physical distance of at least 6 feet from others. Please keep the door to your room or apartment closed. You may open exterior windows, but please do not remove screens.

Restroom

If you do not have a private restroom, you may leave your room to use the facilities designated for your isolation space.

Water

You may use water bottle refill stations.

Meal Pick-Up

You may leave your room to pick up meals each day. Please reference information above and in your isolation email about details of meal delivery from Campus Dining Services.

Mail Pick-up

Please refer to the Mail and Packages tab.

Delivery Pick-up

Please refer to the 3rd Party Delivery tab.

Laundry

You may use the laundry facilities in your assigned building. If you do leave your room to do laundry, please wash your hands, wear a face covering, and either avoid contact with others or maintain physical distancing of six feet or more.

Building

You may not leave the building, unless it is to retrieve delivery near the door or because of an emergency, like a fire. Do not go out for walks.

Medical Care

If you need medical care, you may leave your isolation space. 

Feeling lonely/Mental health


For many, being in isolation can feel very lonely, frustrating and can impact mental health. Please know that you are not alone, and while the next 10 days may be difficult, we hope you will take care of yourself.

We are here to support you.

Coping Tips

  • Keep in touch: Reach out to your family, friends, classmates and colleagues. If you’re struggling, identify someone close to you whom you trust to talk through your situation. While you are in isolation, call a friend and reminisce about a great weekend or talk to your family about your favorite experiences. 

Stay Active

  • Physical activity and movement are great ways to relieve stress, if you are feeling up to it. While you cannot leave your space, there are great virtual fitness classes and outdoor program workshops offered through the Recreation Center. Find activities that work for your schedule and make you feel good.

Practice Self Care 

  • Drink water throughout the day
  • Meditate
  • Unfollow or mute accounts that are too much for you right now
  • Practice gratitude
  • Continue or start with tele-health counseling appointments

Resources

  • Counseling and Psychiatric Services (CAPS) staff are available to speak with you 24/7, 365 days a year. Many of our services are now available via telehealth. In addition to counseling and mental health resources, CAPS offers various groups and workshops via electronic means. Call 303-492-2277 to speak with a staff member or visit colorado.edu/counseling for more information. CAPS also offers Virtual Workshops and Resources to support students in coping with stress, anxiety and uncertainty related to COVID-19.
  • The Office of Victim Assistance (OVA) provides free and confidential information, consultation, support, advocacy and short term counseling services to University of Colorado Boulder students, graduate students, faculty and staff who have experienced a traumatic, disturbing or life-disruptive event. More information is available through their article “Ways to cope if the pandemic is bringing up past trauma”.
  • SilverCloud is a confidential online portal that offers secure, immediate access to online programs for stress, anxiety and depression

Cleaning


Trash will be collected on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays. Place trash outside of your door by 10 a.m.

It is important that you follow these directions:

  • All trash needs to be bagged.
  • Remove all items from the meal box before placing the box in the trash.
  • If food is shelf-stable (not perishable), please keep the item(s) in the room.
  • Break down any boxes and place in large trash bag.

4-5 large trash bags are provided inside the room. Additional large trash bags and sanitizing wipes are located in the hallways and near the lobby table.  

We have also provided cleaning supplies in your isolation space, so that you can wipe down common areas.

If you are in a space with a private bath, your bathroom will not be cleaned during your isolation period. We will provide you with cleaning products, and the CDC recommends that sick individuals clean the bathroom after use.  If your isolation space has a community bathroom, the bathroom will be checked daily and trash will be removed. It will be deep cleaned twice per week. Cleaning products are available in community bathrooms. 

     

    Safety


    For your safety and security, CUPD will make rounds and patrol the building. In addition, please ensure that the door to your room is always closed. Do not remove the screens from the windows, unless it is an emergency.

    In case of a fire alarm, you should:

    • Retrieve your access card and a face covering/mask. Do not stay in your room.
    • Cover your nose and mouth with your face covering
    • Quickly exit the building through the nearest door
    • Walk away from the building and follow instructions from staff and emergency personnel
    • Wait outside the building and socially distance until instructed to safely return. Do not leave the area.

    Families with student in isolation


    We want to support you and your students throughout the isolation process. Please take a look at this page to better understand the process. If you need additional help or have questions, please contact 303-492-5101. Please know, while we want to be helpful, we may not be able to answer all of your questions due to FERPA and HIPAA regulations.

    Who to contact


    Clinical/Health Related Questions

    • If you have any clinical questions, please email Health & Wellness Services for additional support at healthinfo@colorado.edu or call the nurse line at 303-492-5101.
    • The nurse line is available 24/7 for clinical consultation should your symptoms worsen. The nurse line is unable to answer questions pertaining to housing, facilities, or dining related needs. 

    Facilities Questions

    • If your room is too warm or cold or if something is not working correctly, please go to https://fixit.colorado.edu/ and submit a work order, so that the issue may be addressed immediately. In the case of an emergency, residents can call 303-735-5555.

    Locked out or lost access card

    Whether you have locked your access card in the room or lost your access card, contact 303-492-6849 for assistance.

    • You do not need to share your health status, but we will ask that you wear a face covering and maintain social distance policies. Please note, a lost card will cost $5 to replace. You must report your card missing immediately. 

    Mail and Packages

    Whether receiving your mail or a package while you are in isolation, it is important that you follow these directions: 

    • The package or mail item needs to be addressed to your permanent hall.
    • Connect with a friend or family member that is able to pick up your package.
    • Send an email to the UPS store email address (store6439@theupsstore.com) stating the following:
      • Example: I, (first name, last name), allow (first name, last name) to pick up package at The UPS Store on (applicable date). 
    • Ask the individual who is delivering to call you when they arrive outside of your isolation hall. 
    • After they call, wear a face covering and proceed to the isolation lobby. 
    • The delivery should be placed near the doors when you are able to confirm delivery.
    • You may proceed outside to pick up your item. It is important to maintain at least 6 feet of physical distance. 
    • After picking up your delivery, please go directly back to your isolation room. 

    If you are not able to connect with a friend or family member who can pick up your mail or package, please follow these steps:

    • Email reslife@colorado.edu with the following information:
      • Example: I, (first name, last name), allow a Residence Life staff member to pick up package at The UPS Store on (applicable date). 
      • Original hall assignment (where you lived before isolation)
      • Delivery location (name of isolation hall)
      • Cell phone number
    • A Residence Life staff member will contact you via the phone number provided and coordinate a drop off time.
    • Packages will be delivered with social distancing protocols in place.

    After Isolation
     

    • Isolation end date/Case investigators
    • Cleaning room
    • Check-out process

    Isolation end date


    Isolation end date varies from person to person and case by case. In general, students are released from isolation 10 days after symptom onset or 10 days after a positive COVID-19 PCR test. Please keep in mind that you cannot leave isolation until a Case Investigator officially releases you. A Case Investigator will call you either the day before or the day of your isolation release to verify that you are able to leave. You will receive a follow-up email confirming your release and documenting next steps.

    Cleaning room


    After you are released from isolation, and prior to returning to your permanent residence hall, you must: 

    • Pack and remove your personal belongings 
    • Leave provided linens on the bed
    • Take all trash with you and discard in dumpster outside the building 
    • Leave your access card visible in the room (so you don’t get charged); do not leave access card on the lobby table
    • Close windows before you leave

    We know that the isolation process can be challenging, but it is important to leave the space as you found it. You will be responsible for any fees associated with damages or excessive cleaning found by university staff after your departure.  

    Check-Out Process


    Complete the COVID Express Check-out Form
    This should be completed on the day of your departure.

    Reactivate Buff OneCard
    When you return to your permanent residence hall, you will need to stop by the front desk to have your Buff OneCard reactivated.

    Monitoring Appointments
    After testing positive for COVID-19, you do not need to complete weekly monitoring appointments for the remainder of the semester.

    • COVID-19 Information on Medical Services
    • Public Health Clinic
    • Symptoms and What to Do if You Feel Sick
    • Protect Yourself and Our Community
    • COVID-19 Testing
    • Return to Campus Hotline
    • Health, Wellness and Prevention FAQs
    • COVID-19 and Mental Health
    • Contact Tracing
    • I have a positive surveillance test result
    • On-Campus Isolation Information
    • Self-Isolation
    • Self-Quarantine
    • What to do if you have symptoms of COVID-19


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