COVID-19 Protocols & Latest Updates

During the COVID-19 pandemic, Misericordia University has taken steps to protect the health of our students, staff, faculty and community. The Cougar Care team is carefully monitoring health conditions on campus, locally and in our region.

Masking is optional indoors for anyone who feels more comfortable wearing a mask. Those who prefer to be fully masked in campus buildings may do so freely, and we ask that everyone supports and respects their decisions. Students as well as employees have the right to ask individuals to wear a mask in their personal work, study or residential areas.

If you have a question or concern, please contact our Cougar Care team at cougarcare@misericordia.edu.

The last communication regarding COVID went out on 4/9/24 and stated the following:

From: James Roberts
The Center for Disease Control (CDC) continues to be our standard reference for campus health and safety guidelines as well as the basis for required protocols.  Due to a steep reduction in respiratory illnesses (flu, RSV and COVID-19) and access to more tools to combat these illnesses, the CDC recently released updates on mitigation, masking, and quarantine guidance. 

CDC Guidelines - update March 2024

Effective March 19, 2024, the following protocol was implemented:

Students

Students should monitor illness symptoms of fever, muscle aches, and/or cough that could indicate a respiratory infection and contact the Health and Wellness Center by calling (570) 674-6276.  Flu, COVID-19, and RSV tests are available to be administered by our health care staff.

·        The Health and Wellness Center is open 8:30 am-4:30 pm. Guidance is available through health care staff in the Health and Wellness Center should you have questions during those hours.

·        Resident students who are sick will be permitted to stay on campus but, out of care for others, should isolate in their rooms until fever free for 24 hours without the use of fever reducing medications.

·        Fever is considered a temp of 100.4 degrees or higher. You should use your best judgement and stay home/residence room until your symptoms are improving and fever free.

·        If your symptoms warrant medical care, please schedule an appointment with the health center or after hours and weekends with an urgent care center off campus.  It is your responsibility to communicate with your professors regarding class absences.

Faculty/Staff
Faculty and staff are reminded to use their sick time when not at work due to COVID-19 or other illnesses.  Sick time off should be recorded in the ADP system.  Please review the Sick Leave policy if you have any questions about sick time off. 

·        Faculty/staff should monitor illness symptoms of fever, muscle aches, and/or cough that could indicate a respiratory infection.

·        Faculty/staff should be in touch with their supervisors and remain at home until fever free for 24 hours without the use of fever reducing medications. Fever is considered a temp of 100.4 degrees or higher.

·        It is strongly advised to choose either over-the-counter testing or testing through your medical provider to access your ailment and identify a treatment that can alleviate symptoms or reduce the risk of severe illness or complications.

·        Return to campus when appropriate following masking and mitigation guidelines.

Masking & Mitigation for All
Once people resume normal activities, they are encouraged to take additional prevention strategies for the next 5 days to curb disease spread, such as taking more steps for cleaner air (ventilating indoor space, running air purifier, etc.), enhancing hygiene practices, and/or wearing a well-fitting mask. (CDC update March 2024)

Please note: Protocol measures will continue to be monitored and may change based on conditions within our community and/or ongoing guidance from the CDC.

Thank you for your willingness to support our community.