COVID-19

For the Fall 2023 semester, Muskingum’s COVID-19 mitigation strategies, developed based on local, state, and federal guidance, have been designed to both connect and protect our campus community. The following information establishes our COVID-19 policies for this semester.

Any of these policies and procedures may be adjusted based on campus and local conditions, as well as local, state, and federal guidance.  The University’s Health & Safety Team will continue to monitor both as we move through the academic year, and changes will be communicated to you promptly.

Return to Campus Testing

Students are encouraged to take a COVID-19 test within 48 hours prior to their first day on campus, which could be move-in day or the first day of classes.  Faculty and staff should consider taking a self-test within 48 hours of their first day on campus as well.

Positive test results should be reported to the Human Resources Office via the COVID-19 Notification Form, by emailing hr@muskingum.edu, or by calling 740-826-8119.  The Human Resources Office will work with you to discuss your care and next steps.

Face Masks

Muskingum is utilizing a mask optional approach on campus, including in classrooms.  All members of the campus community should carry a mask at all times, as masks may be required in certain settings; this includes upon request in individual work or living spaces, and in some classes.  The classroom mask policy may differ from class to class; students are required to follow the policy set by each faculty member.  Everyone, including visitors, will be expected to comply with those requirements.  

Isolation

Employees are encouraged to test for COVID-19 if they experience any symptoms.  Because COVID-19 symptoms vary, please do not self-diagnose your condition.  In addition, if your initial COVID-19 test is negative, but you continue to experience symptoms, you should consider retesting.

The Human Resources Office will work with each employee who reports a positive test result to determine the appropriate time for isolation.  During isolation, the employee may not be present on campus.

Daily health checks

• Employees should monitor their own health on a daily basis. 
• Employees who experience symptoms of COVID-19, should notify the Human Resources Office using the COVID-19 Notification Form, which is available on the COVID-19 webpage or by calling 740-826-8119.    
• Employees who test positive for COVID-19 should report their test result to the Human Resources Office by using the COVID-19 Notification Form, emailing hr@muskingum.edu, or calling 740-826-8119.

Remote instruction – Students who are placed into isolation by the Student Health Center will continue to participate in classes through use of remote instruction.  Recorded lectures and classroom discussions, joining classes via Teams, and online submission of assignments and assessments are among the tools faculty will use to provide maximum learning opportunities during this time.  Students and faculty members will be notified of start and end dates for remote instruction accommodations, based on isolation periods determined for each student.