COVID Update and Return Guidance – Fall 2022

We look forward to the fall semester and offer this update as we continue to monitor the current phase of COVID-19 and prepare for optimizing the health and safety of all. While conditions have improved – with vaccines and boosters available, severe infections decreasing, and hospital capacities expanded – the ongoing spread of the virus requires individuals to make informed decisions to help ensure the health of themselves and the University community.

Clemson’s updated 2022 COVID protocols are below, and the University will continue to monitor the situation with local and state public health experts and issue updated guidance as needed.

OPTIONAL PRE-ARRIVAL AND ARRIVAL TESTING

• Students, faculty and staff are not required to test prior to arrival.
• All students are encouraged to test – either using an at-home rapid test or through on-campus testing – upon return. Testing is highly recommended for all those who have symptoms or are aware of recent contact with someone with COVID.
• Students who test positive prior to arrival are encouraged to stay at their current location until their isolation period has ended. Please contact Clemson Home at clemsonhome@clemson.edu to reschedule your move-in appointment.

ONGOING TESTING

• Voluntary testing – encouraged for anyone experiencing symptoms or aware of recent contact with someone with COVID – will continue to be available at Littlejohn Coliseum. Details on hours and availabilities can be found by visiting HERE.
• Individuals utilizing the free testing site at Littlejohn should register for a testing time and sign up for a QR code through Rymedi, the University’s testing provider. The QR code is used to initiate a test each time. (Valid University QR codes are in ALL CAPS, which distinguishes from Rymedi’s community testing system.)
• Additionally, free at-home test kits are available through the United States Postal Service and free or low-cost tests are available at most pharmacies.

POSITIVE TESTS

• All positive test results should be uploaded using the Test Result Upload Tool. Those who have tested positive will have limited access to University facilities until CDC-recommended isolation timeline is complete and the steps listed on the University’s COVID website If I Test Positive page.
• MUSC Health and Redfern Health Center offer an easy-to-use online virtual urgent care service for Clemson University and Bridge to Clemson students who are physically present in the state of South Carolina. Available 24/7, students are encouraged to utilize the virtual service to receive quality care from a licensed MUSC provider.
• Individuals are expected to follow CDC guidelines on isolation and quarantine – which currently includes five days of isolation following a positive test.
• Residential students who test positive are encouraged to isolate at home but may isolate in their residence hall or on-campus apartment if no other options are available. Students should discuss their isolation plans with their roommates and/or suitemates at the beginning of the semester.

UNIVERSITY COVID DASHBOARD

• The University continues to update its COVID-19 dashboard so members of the University community can make informed decisions about their behaviors, while being aware of any associated risk. Sources of data displayed in the dashboard include 1) tests conducted through Clemson’s REDDI Lab, 2) tests obtained clinically at the University’s Medical Centers, and 3) tests uploaded to the University’s COVID-19 Test Result Upload Tool.

University health experts are actively monitoring COVID-19 and we will continue keep you advised of any updates to the situation. Thank you for your commitment to the safety of each other, and we will see you soon.