Returning to Campus in January 2023
The university is strongly recommending that everyone returning to campus following winter recess take a PCR test using Color within 48 hours of arrival unless they have tested positive for COVID-19 within the last 90 days.
Prior to starting classroom and clinical activities in January, YSM is also strongly encouraging that all students take a Rapid Antigen test within 24 hours prior to starting curricular or clinical activities and monitor yourself for symptoms.
Obtaining Rapid Antigen Test (RAT) Kits from Yale Health
At-home test kits are covered for Yale Health members at no cost through the pharmacy benefit. To utilize this option, members are required to complete this online request form. The pharmacy will process orders so that tests can be picked up by noon the next business day. Please note that this option is largely dependent upon the availability of home test kits for purchase by Yale Health Pharmacy and may be subject to change based on stock.
NOTE: This option is not available to students who waived Yale Health Hospitalization/Specialty coverage, however, tests are available for purchase at the Yale Health Pharmacy.
COVID-19 Testing Over Winter Recess
You should strongly consider testing for COVID-19 before traveling or spending time with friends and family, even if you have no symptoms. The Yale COVID-19 Testing Program will offer PCR testing through Color before and during the winter recess with the following exceptions:
- December 22nd: Activated test kits must be dropped off no later than 1:30 pm.
- December 23rd-25: Test processing not available, do not activate test kits.
- December 26th: Color testing resumes, drop off activated test kits by 1:30 pm.
- December 29th: Activated test kits must be dropped off no later than 1:30 pm.
- December 30th - January 1st: Test processing not available, do not activate test kits
- January 2nd: Color testing resumes, drop off activated test kits by 1:30 pm
While PCR tests are more accurate, rapid antigen tests may also be useful, especially if repeated within 24-48 hours. Please note that expiration dates on many rapid antigen tests have been extended beyond the dates on the package; you can find updated expiration information from the FDA.
Anyone Who is Symptomatic Should...
- Test, either with a PCR or a rapid antigen test.
- If the rapid antigen test is negative, repeat it within 24-48 hours.
- If the rapid antigen or PCR test is positive, contact a health care provider for instructions about isolation and treatment, and report the test result to the university.
- Wear a mask.
- Avoid close contact with others.
COVID-19 Safer Travel Guide
Travel and associated activities have been identified as a risk for exposure to COVID-19. The university urges travelers to assess risks prior to travel and deploy safe practices during all travel. Review Yale’s Travel Policy, which is updated as needed and applies to personal and university-sponsored travel.
Up-to-Date Information for Isolating & Quarantine
Up-to-date information for isolating and quarantine guidance for on and off campus students can be found at covid19.yale.edu/health-guidelines/isolation-guidance-those-who-test-positive. If you have questions you can communicate with the YSM Health and Safety Leaders (HSLs): Associate Deans Michael Schwartz and John Francis
Reporting COVID-19 Infection from a Test Outside of the Yale Testing Program
Those who have a documented history of a positive test or symptomatic COVID-19 disease should not, in general, be retested within 90 days of a positive test.
- If you test positive for COVID-19 with home tests or at non-Yale University testing centers you should submit a copy of the test and any related medical records for review to Yale Health by completing the online form*. You are also encouraged to call your Yale Health care provider to discuss treatment options.
- Once confirmed, if part of a required testing program, the individual will be automatically exempted from gateway and routine testing for 90 days from the date of the positive test.
- Individuals who are tested through one of the Yale University test sites in the Yale Testing program will automatically have their testing requirements paused for 90 days.
Other COVID-19 Health & Safety Requirements
Current information about requirements related to masking, campus visitors, travel, and other activities is available at covid19.yale.edu. Students should consult this site regularly. The Yale Community Compact requires students to comply with all COVID-19 health and safety measures. COVID-related policies are subject to change based on prevailing public health conditions and guidance. Questions about these policies may be directed to Associate Deans Michael Schwartz and John Francis, the YSM Health and Safety Leaders.
YSM Cushing Library 24/7 Computing & Study Space Designated Masking Area
Beginning Monday, November 21st, the Medical Library’s 24/7 Computing & Study Space was designated a masking area when the Medical Library is open. This space is equipped with 13 computing workstations and is accessible by both stairs and elevator during regular library hours.
Learn more at library.medicine.yale.edu/news/247-computing-study-space-becomes-designated-masking-area