COVID-19

Student Self-Report Form

The University of Sioux Falls continues to monitor the COVID-19 situation as we remain focused on the health and well-being of our community.

COVID-19 Vaccination

A COVID-19 vaccine is not a requirement at USF for the 2023-2024 school year, but vaccination is the leading prevention strategy to protect individuals from COVID-19 disease and end the COVID-19 pandemic. As the number of vaccinated individuals increases in our community, the likelihood of severe illness and the risk of spreading the virus that causes COVID-19 decreases.

Find a COVID-19 Vaccine: Search vaccines.gov, text your ZIP code to 438829, or call 1-800-232-0233 to find locations near you in the United States. Sioux Falls' clinics and pharmacies will allow you to receive your 2nd dose of the vaccine even if you started your series at home. Just take along your vaccine card to prove the date and manufacturer of your first shot.

Mask Policy

Masks are optional on the USF campus, indoors and outside. CDC guidelines can be found on the CDC website. People may choose to mask at any time. The CDC recommends people with symptoms, a positive test or exposure to someone with COVID-19 should wear a mask.

What should I do if I become ill?

Students feeling ill should:

  • Contact your primary care provider if you start to notice possible symptoms or have concerns about your health.
  • Call Avera Health Services at 1-877-282-8372. 
  • If you are unable to reach your primary provider and are seriously ill, go to urgent care, emergency room or call 911. Call in advance to urgent care or the ER so staff is prepared for your arrival.
  • Avoid public spaces and self-isolate.
  • USF has rapid antigen COVID tests available for free. Submit a self-report or text Amy Johnson, USF COVID Team Lead, at 605-321-8525.

If you test positive for COVID-19:

  • Students and employees that test positive for COVID-19 are encouraged to follow the latest CDC guidelines.
  • Please work directly with your professors for any potential absences.
  • Submit a self-report to notify the COVID Response Team.

COVID-19 Self-Report Form

What should I do if I have been exposed to someone with COVID-19

Students who have been exposed to someone with COVID-19 should:

  • Wear a well-fitted mask for 10 days from exposure whenever around others
  • Monitor for symptoms of COVID
  • Test on or after day five
  • Test sooner if you become symptomatic

Self-Screening

COVID-19 has had a wide range of symptoms reported - ranging from mild symptoms to severe illness. Symptoms may appear 2-14 days after exposure to the virus. Individuals with these symptoms may have COVID-19:

  • Fever
  • Cough
  • Shortness of breath 
  • Difficulty breathing
  • Fatigue
  • Muscle or body aches
  • Headache
  • Loss of taste or smell
  • Sore Throat
  • Congestion or runny nose
  • Nausea or vomiting 
  • Diarrhea

South Dakota Department of Health provides a COVID-19 screening tool to help you understand what to do next if you experience symptoms.

USF Employees | Faculty & Staff

Access employee COVID-19 resources, important links and more with the button below.

employee COVID-19 Resources

Employee Self-report form

More Resources

Historical Updates & Data

Information on these pages is subject to change. USF continues to monitor reports and recommendations from local health agencies, the South Dakota Department of Public Health and the CDC. USF reserves the right to alter these policies and protocols if deemed necessary.