The following message provides new information regarding state testing requirements. Health and safety standards are subject to change and are adopted as a part of the University’s COVID-19 prevention and mitigation strategies as recommended by the Illinois Board of Higher Education (IBHE), Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH), and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
For the most up-to-date information about the University’s approach to COVID-19, visit the Coronavirus website or email Coronavirus.illinoisstate.edu.
Testing and Vaccination Requirement Update
On July 13, the University learned that Executive Order 2021-22 was modified to rescind vaccination and testing requirements for higher education. As a result, effective immediately, weekly testing is no longer required for most unvaccinated students, faculty, and staff.
In accordance with the Governor’s Executive Order 2021-22, healthcare workers and K-12 school personnel who are not fully vaccinated are to participate in the on-campus COVID-19 testing program at least once every seven calendar days until fully vaccinated, and vaccination records are on file with Student Health Services. These include those assigned to Illinois State healthcare settings and laboratory schools, including students and student workers in these areas (e.g., nursing students, student teachers, students in clinical settings).
Transition of On-campus Testing
Asymptomatic testing will remain available through July 29 for those individuals who are to participate in testing as well as for current students, faculty, and staff who would like to obtain a test. Paid release time will not be provided for employees who choose to take advantage of voluntary testing. Testing options after July 29 will be communicated at a later date.
Information about testing hours is available by visiting the Coronavirus website.
Students who are experiencing COVID-19 symptoms should contact Student Health Services. Employees who are experiencing COVID-19 symptoms should contact their medical provider. Information about local COVID-19 testing options is available by visiting the McLean County Health Department website. You may also place an order for free at-home COVID-19 tests at COVID.gov.
Testing appointments are not required. Students and employees must check-in at the testing center by using their Redbird ID Card and remain in the testing center until the test result is received, generally about 15 minutes. Face coverings will be provided and required to be worn while in the testing center.
Employees:
- If the test result is negative, no further steps are needed and employees should return to their worksite.
- If the test result is positive, employees should depart campus and follow the directions provided at the testing center.
- Employees should bring all items to the testing center that they would ordinarily take with them when they depart the University for the day as they will be unable to return to their worksite if their test result is positive.
Students taking courses on-campus over the summer:
- If the test is negative, no further steps are needed. Students may attend class and participate in on-campus activities, including on-campus employment.
- If the test result is positive, students should return home and follow the directions provided at the testing center.
Vaccination continues to be the best and most effective way to protect yourself and others from Coronavirus. If you have not yet received a COVID-19 vaccination or booster, you are encouraged to do so. Vaccination locations can be found near campus or your hometown. Individuals are strongly encouraged to obtain and upload proof of a booster vaccine, when they become eligible. Submit vaccination and booster records as soon as possible to the secure Patient Health Portal.
