Managing COVID-19: Best Practices and Updated Guidance

October 6, 2023

While UA business has mostly returned to normal, it’s a new normal where we’re managing the ongoing impacts of COVID-19. University leadership encourages everyone to stay informed and adhere to best practices to protect the health and safety of our communities. 

Here are some key reminders and best practices from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC):

  • Vaccination: Stay up to date with COVID-19 vaccine.. Vaccination remains one of the most effective ways to reduce the spread of COVID-19 and its severity.
    • As of September 12, 2023, the 2023–2024 updated Pfizer-BioNTech and Moderna COVID-19 vaccines were recommended by CDC for use in the United States. Search vaccines.gov, text your ZIP code to 438829, or call 1-800-232-0233 to find vaccine locations near you.
  • Testing: Test for COVID-19, especially if you are symptomatic, or have been exposed to someone with COVID-19.
    • The CDC recently re-opened its free, at-home testing program. Visit covid.gov/tests to learn more or order up to 4 free at-home tests per household.
    • COVID-19 tests are eligible purchases with funds from both Health Savings Accounts (HSA) and Health Care Flexible Spending Accounts (FSA). You can purchase COVID-19 tests at a local pharmacy using your contributions to your HSA or FSA via their debit cards or by reimbursing yourself from these accounts after purchase.
  • Isolation and Quarantine: Follow guidelines for isolation if you test positive for COVID-19 and quarantine if you have been in close contact with someone who has tested positive.
    • Generally speaking, watch for symptoms if you think you’ve been exposed, and isolate if you have a positive COVID-19 test result. CDC Recommendations for COVID-19 Exposure
    • While emergency protocols are no longer in place for COVID, please work with your supervisor to coordinate your return to the office after a COVID-19 exposure or illness.
  • Hygiene: Practice good hand hygiene by washing your hands frequently with soap and water for at least 20 seconds or using hand sanitizer when soap and water are not available.

UA is committed to creating and fostering a safe, healthy environment for all of our students, staff, and faculty. We are a community, and our collective efforts can make a significant difference. Please continue to refer to the CDC’s guidance, and if you have more specific questions, talk with your supervisor or HR Coordinator.