MTSU Response to Coronavirus Disease
Recent state law does not allow public institutions like MTSU to mandate the wearing
of face masks except under severe and specific conditions (which include a declaration
by the governor of a COVID-specific state of emergency). However, we strongly recommend
their use while inside campus buildings or when social distancing is impractical.
Masking, coupled with booster vaccination, can reduce infections.
The most current guidance from the CDC is available here and should be regularly reviewed.
COVID-19 Vaccine and Testing
Is the COVID-19 vaccine available on campus?
MTSU Student Health Services will offer Moderna clinics. Vaccinations are available
at no cost to students, faculty, and staff. Vaccination appointments can be booked
HERE.
Is COVID-19 on-campus testing available to students?
Yes. Students may visit MTSU Student Health Services for free in-house COVID antigen and, if necessary, in-house PCR testing for students
who are symptomatic. Results are typically available same day. For asymptomatic contacts,
who desire COVID testing, the Everlywell PCR take home test (while supplies last)
is available free of charge.
A limited number of free at-home COVID-19 tests are available through the government
at https://special.usps.com/testkits
Is COVID-19 on-campus testing available to faculty and staff?
We are pleased to be able to provide immunizations for all members of the MTSU community,
including faculty and staff. However, faculty and staff are reminded that MTSU Student
Health Services is funded by student fees and has a primary obligation to serve our
students. Faculty and staff should see their primary care physician, local urgent
care, or pharmacies for testing and guidance on isolation and quarantine.
A limited number of free at-home COVID-19 tests are available through the government
at https://special.usps.com/testkits
Most at-home COVID-19 tests are free with the Employee Health Insurance. Please consult
your plan for specific details.
Quarantine and Isolation Requirements
What should I do if I am experiencing symptoms?
Unvaccinated students, faculty, and staff MUST NOT come to campus if they are in isolation
due to COVID-19, are experiencing COVID-19 symptoms, are awaiting test results for
symptoms, or have reason to believe they have had close contact with a COVID-positive
person.
Fully vaccinated students, faculty, and staff MUST NOT come to campus if they are
in isolation due to COVID-19, are experiencing COVID-19 symptoms, or are awaiting
test results for symptoms.
Anyone experiencing COVID-19 symptoms should seek testing.
Who can assist with quarantine / isolation moves?
If you are living on campus, please visit the COVID-19 Housing Protocols website for specific information. MTSU Housing will not be able to assist students in packing
and moving to their off-campus temporary quarantine or isolation spaces.
Other COVID-19 Questions
What happens if a student misses classes due to COVID-19?
Students who must miss class because of COVID-19 isolation or quarantine requirements
should contact their instructors directly to make arrangements to keep up with coursework
while unable to attend.
How should faculty and staff handle continuing employment obligations?
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Faculty and staff who have been diagnosed with COVID-19, or are quarantining because
of potential exposure to the virus, may reach out to supervisors to discuss the possibility
for remote teaching and/or work, if mutually agreeable between the University and
the employee. Not all job assignments are able to be performed from home, and therefore,
employees should be prepared to use sick leave as necessary.
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The ADA reasonable accommodation process is still available for those with medical
conditions or disabilities (contact the ADA Compliance Office for further information). This process is conducted on a case-by-case basis, taking
both a person’s medical concerns and job duties into account. Employees should not
assume that remote work will necessarily be deemed a reasonable accommodation.
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While the University has an existing policy for alternate work arrangements for non-faculty employees, such arrangements are not a right or a benefit, and requests
must include a business justification.
Expectations of Community Members
I’m a student. What should I do if I feel sick?
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Contact MTSU Student Health Services at 615-898-2988 or online at www.mtsu.edu/healthservices. MTSU Student Health Services is free for enrolled students.
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Unvaccinated students MUST NOT come to campus if they are in isolation due to COVID-19, are experiencing COVID-19
symptoms, are awaiting test results for symptoms, or have reason to believe they have
had close contact with a COVID-positive person.
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Fully vaccinated students MUST NOT come to campus if they are in isolation due to COVID-19, are experiencing COVID-19
symptoms, or are awaiting test results for symptoms.
I’m faculty or staff. What should I do if I feel sick?
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Faculty and staff SHOULD see their primary care physician, local urgent care, or pharmacies for testing and
consequent isolation and quarantine if applicable. MTSU Student Health Services is
not able to provide services to faculty and staff.
-
Unvaccinated faculty and staff MUST NOT come to campus if they are in isolation due to COVID-19, are experiencing COVID-19
symptoms, are awaiting test results for symptoms, or have reason to believe they have
had close contact with a COVID-positive person.
-
Fully vaccinated faculty and staff MUST NOT come to campus if they are in isolation due to COVID-19, are experiencing COVID-19
symptoms, or are awaiting test results for symptoms.
What else can I do to stay safe?
All community members SHOULD follow personal hygiene and protective measures, including but not limited to washing
hands often; avoiding touching eyes, nose, and mouth; coughing or sneezing into your
face mask or elbow; using face masks and coverings and other PPE appropriately; and
cleaning and disinfecting work areas appropriately.
