Note that CHS and HR will not notify close or proximate contacts for exposure, and this will rely on the individual that tests positive.
If you test positive for COVID, it’s important for you to tell your close contacts that they may have been exposed to COVID-19 so they can quarantine, get tested, and wear a well-fitting mask while also taking additional measures to prevent unknowingly spreading COVID to their close contacts. If they are infected, they could spread COVID-19 starting 2 days before they have any symptoms or test positive. By letting your close contacts know they may have been exposed to COVID-19, you are helping to protect them and everyone around them. CDC guidance on how to talk to close contacts
Who is a Close Contact?
Close contacts are people you have been around (less than 6 feet away for a combined total of 15 minutes or more over a 24-hour period) during the two-day period before you first had symptoms OR if you do not have symptoms, two days before you were tested for COVID-19, through to the time you started isolation. They are at high risk of infection and therefore need to be notified as soon as possible.
If you test positive:
- Identify individuals that you have come into close contact with within 48 hours of testing positive or developing symptoms (whichever occurred first) through today.
- Call, email or text your close contacts to notify them of their exposure to COVID and the recommendation to seek COVID testing at least 3-5 days after the exposure, sooner should they develop any symptoms. This allows individuals to take extra precautions and more carefully monitor their own health status.
- All close contacts should follow Mass guidelines.
- Notify your professors, supervisors, and/or coaches of your need to be absent from in-person activities for 5-10 days due to a health-related concern. We would encourage you to participate remotely, if you feel well enough to do so.
Notifying close contacts, professors, or supervisors
Professors and supervisors will NOT be notified by health services of your absence or need to isolate. You can find sample language to communicate your need to isolate with faculty, supervisors, or close contacts below. If you are experiencing difficulties with your classes or your supervisor, please contact our COVID support team, 978.542.3240.
Sample Language for Notifying Faculty
Dear Professors,
I am writing to you since I am a student in your course (Name, Section, Date and Time of Course). I need to refrain from coming to campus and/ or participating in-person activities due to a positive COVID test or COVID symptoms as indicated by SSU and MA Department of Public Health isolation and quarantine guidance.
I will be absent from on-campus classes and/or responsibilities for 5-10 days. Before I return to campus, I will ensure I have a negative rapid test and/or have no symptoms.
Please let me know if I am able to participate in class remotely during this time or if you have recommendations for how best I can make up the work. I would like to continue to make academic progress in your class.
Thank you so much for your understanding and flexibility. If you have any further questions, employees can discuss with HR and students with health services at 978.542.3240.
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Sample Language for Notifying Supervisor
Dear (insert name of supervisor),
I am writing to you to inform you that I need to refrain from fulfilling my on- campus work duties/ or participating in-person activities due to a positive COVID test or COVID symptoms as indicated by SSU and MA Department of Public Health isolation and quarantine guidance.
I will be absent from on-campus responsibilities for approximately 5-10 days. Before I return to campus, I will ensure I have a negative rapid test and/or have no symptoms.
For further information, please visit the Polaris COVID-19 Health, Safety, and Campus Response channels.
Thank you so much for your understanding and flexibility. If you have any further questions, employees can discuss with HR and students with health services at 978-542-3240.
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Sample Language for Notifying Salem State Students or Colleagues of Close Contact
Hi (insert name),
I recently tested positive for COVID-19 on (DATE). We spent time together on (DATE), and I want you and those that you are around to be safe. It is HIGHLY recommended that you schedule COVID testing 3-5 days after this exposure. If you are an SSU student, you can schedule an appointment with health services for testing on your health portal. You can find where to get tested off campus here. If you develop symptoms please self-isolate and get tested as soon as possible.
Sample Language for Notifying Contacts Outside of Salem State
Hi (insert name)
I recently tested positive for COVID-19 on (DATE). We spent time together on (DATE), and I want you and those that you are around to be safe. Here are the CDC recommendations. If you have symptoms of COVID-19, please get tested, and follow CDC guidelines for isolation.