The COVID-19 pandemic is pushing on two years, with infection rates still climbing with the introduction of new variants. The University of North Dakota is following new CDC and NDDOH guidelines for isolation and quarantine measures. The new guidelines are as follows: 

Isolation  

When an individual tests positive for COVID-19, isolation procedures are utilized. After a positive result, the NDDOH states to stay home and isolate for 5 days. If symptoms began or worsened, continue isolating for 5 more days. If symptoms were never reported or they improved without the use of fever reducing medication, an antigen/rapid test is recommended on day 5 of isolation. If results are positive, continue isolation for 5 more days; if results are negative, isolation may end but continued use of a mask for 5 days is recommended.  

Quarantine 

Quarantine status is highly dependent on one’s vaccination status.  

1. Unvaccinated: The CDC recommends quarantine for 5 days followed by strict mask use for 5 days. 

1. Vaccinated (6 months out from mRNA dose or 2 months after J&J): CDC recommends quarantine for 5 days followed by 5 days of strict mask use. If quarantine is not possible, strict mask use is required for 10 days. 

1. Booster shot, prior infection within 90 days, or within 6 months of primary mRNA of 2 months of J&J: do NOT need to quarantine but should wear a mask for 10 days. Also recommended to test on the 5th day after exposure. 

UND is offering other resources to students for their continued efforts in stopping the spread of germs. Some of the resources include: 

PCR and Rapid Testing 

Free PCR and rapid tests are available at the Pollard Athletic Center, Monday through Friday 7am-11am (with rapid testing ending at 10:45am) for the Grand Forks community. Students, faculty, and staff can also receive rapid testing at Wilkerson Commons room 173/175 Monday through Friday 12pm-4pm at no charge. Rapid testing requires pre-registration here and registration for a PCR can be done at the Pollard Athletic Center or by calling 701.780.6358. 

Testing Incentives  

When a UND student gets tested for COVID-19 at the Pollard Athletic Center or at Wilkerson Commons, students will receive a $10 voucher for use at on-campus dining locations. This includes Memorial Union dining locations, Wilkerson Dining Center, C-Store, Stomping Grounds, etc. Students are allowed a maximum of one voucher a day, 3 times per week.  

Free KN95 Masks  

UND is providing KN95 to students, faculty, and staff free of charge. KN95 masks are able to filter air better than a regular surgical mask, with efficacy rates as high as 95% of very small particles. KN95 masks can be picked up from the Student Involvement Office in the Memorial Union and at the Office of Public Safety (3851 Campus Rd).  

Home Testing  

Individuals are now able to order at home rapid tests. They are free of charge and shipped to your home. There is a limit of 4 tests per household. Orders ship in 7-12 days. Order at home testing kits here. If a home test does show a positive result, isolation measures are recommended. Due to limited laboratory testing supplies, further testing is not advised.  

The University is continuing to urge students, faculty, and staff to receive the vaccinee. Transmission rates continue to be monitored by UND; this rate will indicate the length of the indoor mask mandate on campus. Masks will be required in indoor public campus places until the Grand Forks County transmission rate falls bellow 55 active cases/100,000 (week). 

Dominique Menard is a Dakota Student News Editor. She can be reached at [email protected].