COVID-19 Health Information
COVID-19 is a virus that can cause a variety of symptoms. For many people, it causes mild upper respiratory issues including runny nose, sinus pressure, headache, cough and sore throat. Others will have gastrointestinal symptoms such as vomiting or diarrhea; there is also a wide range of less common symptoms. In some cases, COVID can be a more severe illness. This occurs typically (but not exclusively) in those with underlying health conditions. Some conditions that place people at greater risk include hypertension, lung disease, morbid obesity, and autoimmune diseases.
Covid is usually a self-limited illness. After a diagnosis, there is a need to focus on managing symptoms. Treatments are similar to what you would do for cold and include ibuprofen and acetaminophen for fever, cough syrups as needed for cough, and gargling salt water for sore throats. It is important to keep yourself well hydrated throughout the illness and to allow yourself plenty of time to rest.
Health Services can see you for any covid-related concerns. Depending on the symptoms you are experiencing, you can also seek care with an urgent care center, an emergency room, or your own health care provider. Those with underlying conditions may benefit from antiviral medications in the first 5 days of symptoms. They are advised to consult with their provider or Health Services to see if these medicines are appropriate. If any person has a fever above 102, shortness of breath, chest pain, is unable to stay hydrated, or if any other symptoms arise that can't be managed at home, they should seek other medical care.
Current CDC guidelines recommend that anyone testing positive for COVID should stay home and isolate for at least 5 days. For those living in a residence hall, this means staying in your room as much as possible. After your isolation, it is recommended that you wear a mask in public for the next 5 days. As you will be unable to attend class during your period of isolation, you will need to make arrangements directly with your instructors.
For more information on SUNY Geneseo’s policies and procedures regarding COVID-19 vaccination, testing, and other precautions designed to protect the health of the campus community, see COVID-19 Guidelines.