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Communicable Disease Guidelines

Communicable Disease Guidelines

Kilgore College is committed to maintaining a healthy learning and working environment while continuing normal campus operations. Students, employees and visitors are encouraged to take reasonable precautions to reduce the spread of communicable illnesses, including COVID-19, influenza, RSV and other respiratory or gastrointestinal viruses.

Preventing the Spread of Illness

Everyone is encouraged to:

  • Wash hands frequently with soap and water or use hand sanitizer.
  • Cover coughs and sneezes.
  • Stay home when feeling ill.
  • Clean frequently touched surfaces.
  • Consider wearing a face covering if desired or recommended by a healthcare provider.
  • Stay current on recommended vaccinations and consult a healthcare provider regarding vaccines and treatment options.
When to Stay Home

Students, employees and visitors should stay home if they:

  • Have a fever.
  • Are experiencing vomiting or diarrhea.
  • Have respiratory symptoms that are worsening or not improving.
  • Are otherwise too ill to participate in normal activities.
Returning to Campus

Individuals may return to campus when, for at least 24 hours, both of the following are true:

  • Symptoms are improving overall.
  • They have been fever-free without the use of fever-reducing medication.

After returning, individuals are encouraged for the next five days to:

  • Practice good hand hygiene.
  • Cover coughs and sneezes.
  • Consider wearing a face covering in crowded indoor settings.
  • Avoid close contact with individuals at higher risk of severe illness when possible.
Students
  • Contact instructors regarding extended absences.
  • Complete missed coursework as directed by instructors.
  • Students with prolonged illnesses should work with their instructors regarding academic accommodations.
Employees
  • Report absences through normal departmental procedures.
  • Use available sick leave for illness-related absences.
  • Contact Human Resources regarding Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA) eligibility for extended medical leave.
Frequently Asked Questions

Is quarantine required?

No. Individuals should follow current guidance from their healthcare provider and applicable public health authorities.

Is a negative test required before returning?

No.

Is a doctor's note required to return?

Generally, no, unless requested by Human Resources or otherwise required by college policy.

Should I notify the college if I test positive?

Students should notify instructors if illness will affect class attendance. Employees should notify their supervisor if illness prevents them from reporting to work.

Additional Resources