About ACU’s Protocols
What happens if a student tests positive for COVID-19?
Students who test positive for COVID-19 should follow CDC guidelines, as well as the instruction of their health care provider, concerning medical care and isolation. Students should also communicate with faculty about absences and/or fulfilling their course obligations while recovering.
What happens if a staff or faculty member tests positive for COVID-19?
Staff and faculty who test positive for COVID-19 should follow CDC guidelines, as well as the instruction of their health care provider, concerning medical care and isolation. Faculty should coordinate with their department chair regarding plans for their classes. Staff should communicate with their supervisor about taking sick time and/or working remotely as needed.
Will ACU notify faculty members if a student in their class tests positive for COVID-19?
In the past, ACU’s Student Opportunities, Advocacy and Resources program notified faculty of a student’s need to isolate and the expected duration. Beginning in the Fall 2022, SOAR will no longer notify faculty of COVID-related absences; students will communicate directly with their instructors as they would for other illness-related absences. SOAR will continue to be a resource for all struggling students.
Will students who test positive for COVID-19 be required to leave the residence hall to isolate?
ACU will not manage or require isolation or quarantine due to COVID-19 or other illnesses. The residence halls are students’ homes, and when a student is ill, they stay home to get well. In addition, students should follow the directive of their healthcare provider as it relates to their wellness.
What if a student, faculty or staff member is exposed to COVID-19?
A person who has been exposed to COVID-19 may need to take precautions. See the guidelines provided by the CDC for more details, or speak with your health care provider.
Are masks required?
ACU’s campus remains mask-optional at this time.
Will these protocols change during the school year?
ACU’s Health Response Team will review data, benchmarks and community spread. If the situation warrants, ACU’s protocols may be adjusted as necessary.
About Vaccination
How and where can I get vaccinated?
Call the ACU Medical Clinic at 325-674-2625 to find out about availability of vaccines and boosters. The Abilene Taylor County Public Health District scheduling form is also open for anyone who wants to receive the vaccine.
Why should I get vaccinated?
Vaccination can protect you from getting ill, reduce the severity of illness, and help protect your family, friends, neighbors and co-workers from the dangers of this disease. It will take all of us to stop the spread of COVID-19 in our community. When enough people are vaccinated, the spread from person-to-person becomes less frequent and increases the protection of the whole community. Please see this guidance from the CDC on possible side effects after receiving a COVID-19 vaccine.
Is the vaccine required?
No. Vaccination is voluntary, but strongly encouraged.
What does it cost to get the vaccine?
The vaccine is free. If you have health insurance, the vaccine provider may bill the insurance carrier an administrative fee. If you do not have insurance, the vaccine provider may seek administrative reimbursement through funding made available via the federal CARES Act program. The ACU Medical Clinic will not charge an administrative fee.
Where can I find out more information?
Visit Texas Dept. of State Health Services or the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention for more information and ongoing updates about COVID-19 and the vaccine.
If you have further questions about ACU’s policies, send them to covidquestions@acu.edu.
If you have further questions, please contact covidquestions@acu.edu.