Coronavirus & Respiratory Virus Protocols

Respiratory Virus Protocols (Influenza, RSV or COVID)*
Effective 8/1/2024

Lenoir-Rhyne University follows the general guidelines from the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) and the recommendations from local health and medical experts in an effort to keep our campus community as safe as possible.

Guidelines for those who have symptoms and/or test positive Influenza, RSV or COVID

  • Remain confined to your residence and wear a mask if around anyone.
  • You may end confinement when your symptoms have resolved and you are without fever for 24 hours without medication.
  • Your health care provider or LR’s health care provider must approve your return to work and/or classes. Upon your return, a written statement must be provided. Student Health on campus is available at 828.328.7958 for appointments and Telehealth visits are available.
  • Practice good handwashing and hygiene; proper disposal of soiled tissues; avoid sharing linens; proper disinfection of surfaces and personal items; cough into elbow or clothing when tissues unavailable.

Guidelines for those who are exposed to someone with a Serious Respiratory Virus (Influenza, RSV or COVID)

  • Practice good handwashing and hygiene; proper disposal of soiled tissues; avoid sharing linens; proper disinfection of surfaces and personal items; cough into elbow or clothing when tissues are unavailable.
  • Remain cautious to any symptoms and see a health care provider for evaluation and treatment as appropriate.

Testing

You should be tested if you suspect or develop the symptoms of Influenza, RSV or COVID. Testing is available at Student Health on the Hickory campus, at local pharmacies, urgent care or your personal health care provider. Lenoir-Rhyne will also accept the results of a COVID home test kit.

Reporting

We highly encourage you to notify the following LR staff when there is a positive diagnosis or concern about evolving symptoms.

Returning

All students, faculty and staff who test positive for Influenza, RSV or COVID-19 should have medical clearance before returning to campus from a personal healthcare provider or from LR Student Health (Mary Fran Sears, PA-C). Student Health can be reached at 828.328.7958.

*Lenoir-Rhyne reserves the right to make individual modifications to this policy based on circumstances related to exposure or circumstances pertaining to individual diagnosis.