Madonna University’s Public Health Policy

College and university environments encompass classrooms, residence halls, and event venues that host a myriad of classes, activities, and events, facilitating interactions among students, staff, and community members.  These interactions also present opportunities for the spread of illnesses.

Madonna University remains committed to staying current with the latest guidance from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS) pertaining to these settings.  As new guidance becomes available or public health conditions evolve, we will promptly update our procedures and policies.  These updates will be accessible on the University’s official website and within the Student and Employee Resources sections of MYPortal as needed.

Communicable Disease Protocol

Communicable diseases are illnesses that can be transmitted from one person to another or from contaminated surfaces or food to a person.  Examples of these diseases include influenza, norovirus (commonly known as the stomach flu), and COVID-19.

Prevention

In cases where a vaccine is available, getting vaccinated when eligible is one of the most effective methods to reduce the likelihood of illness.  Additionally, there are proactive measures that can further minimize the risk of infection, including:

• Personal Responsibilities: If you are feeling sick, it is important to stay home.  Cover your coughs and sneezes with a tissue or your elbow and regularly wash your hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds.
• A Germ-Free Environment:  Everyone can contribute to keeping shared spaces clean by regularly disinfecting high-touch surfaces and objects such as doorknobs, countertops, and handles.

Reporting

Individuals in the following roles:

• Faculty
• Supervisors
• Coaches
• Advisors of Student Organizations
• Resident Assistants

Who witness three or more individuals within a specific class, workgroup, student organization, or athletic program displaying symptoms consistent with influenza, norovirus, or COVID-19 over a seven-to-ten-day timeframe are encouraged to report this occurrence using the Communicable Disease Reporting Form available on MYPortal.  Please ensure that you are logged in to MYPortal to access the reporting link.

Suspected Communicable Disease Response

If you suspect you have a communicable disease:

• Isolate – If you are feeling sick, please stay home.  If you are a residential student, remain in your room until your symptoms resolve
• Seek Medical Attention – Keep a close eye on your health and seek medical attention if your symptoms worsen or do not improve.
• Monitor – Students in isolation should be closely monitored to ensure their safety.
• Clean – It’s important to regularly clean high-touch surfaces with an antimicrobial solution.

 

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