Health & Safety Guidance

If you are sick, you must stay home. Please follow the current CDC guidance for symptoms of COVID-19, and assess your health before coming to campus.


COVID-19 Symptoms & Exposure – What to Do

If you’re experiencing COVID-19 symptoms or have tested positive for COVID-19, use the 2022 COVID-19 Symptoms & Exposure flowchart to determine your next steps. [Updated August 17, 2022]

Masks

  • Face coverings are encouraged but not required in all University buildings. UNC Asheville will continue to follow masking policy guidance from the CDC, NCDHHS and UNC System leadership. Exceptions will include health care settings where staff provide medical care to students.
  • Out of respect for each individual’s personal choice, members of the UNC Asheville community are reminded to be respectful of the choice to wear or not wear a mask in any situation. All are encouraged to decide what is best for their health and personal circumstances, also being mindful of the needs of others. Because well-fitting masks provide extra protection, you may still choose to wear one.

Vaccinations

  • COVID-19 vaccines have been scientifically proven to be our best weapon against the virus. Vaccines are safe, free, and highly effective in protecting against serious illness from all known variants. Vaccines are readily available on campus and continue to be a safe and effective method to prevent severe disease progression. 

To find vaccine sites near you, please visit the North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services (NCDHSS) website.

Students, faculty and staff who have questions should contact the UNC Asheville Health and Counseling Center at (828) 251-6520.

Hand-Washing

Hand hygiene throughout the day is critical, especially after touching public surfaces (e.g. doorknobs, railings, desks, equipment), after sneezing or coughing, after using the bathroom, and before and after eating. Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds.

If soap and water are not readily available, use hand sanitizer that contains at least 60% alcohol. Cover all surfaces of your hands and rub them together until they feel dry. Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth, and wash your hands after touching your face.

Hand sanitizer dispensers are available throughout all campus buildings.

Practice Good Hygiene

Remember to always cover your mouth and nose with a tissue or use the inside of your elbow when you cough or sneeze. Throw used tissues in the trash. Immediately wash your hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds or use hand sanitizer following coughing or sneezing.


Health Resources

Self-care is crucial in times of stress. We hope these resources are helpful as we all try to adapt to the evolving nature of this situation. Be well and please take care of yourselves and one another.

Health & Counseling Center

The Health and Counseling Center hours are Monday-Friday: 8 a.m. – 4:30 p.m. Students can call the free After-Hours Support Line – Bulldog Health Link at 1.888.267.3675 anytime from 5 p.m. – 8 a.m. Monday through Friday, and Saturday and Sunday 24 hours/day.

Employees can visit the HR website for information on available services.

Managing Stress and Practicing Self-Care

General Resources
The CDC webpage on managing anxiety and stress provides a practical overview of self-care and resources. The National Alliance on Mental Illness provides a comprehensive information and resource guide that addresses self-care and community/national resources.

The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration tip sheet answers questions about COVID-19, social distancing, quarantine and isolation.

The American Psychological Association website offers resources and links of various types.

The World Health Organization has a 20-page guide focused on addressing mental health aspects of COVID-19.

Daily Strategies
The National Alliance on Mental Illness recommends daily strategies for self-care and awareness. Following is a summary of general recommendations:

  • Space. Create a structured, dedicated work environment, and include regular patterns of self-care.
  • Routine. Try to maintain a routine that reflects your normal day routine, including how you dress and structured breaks for lunch and mini-breaks.
  • Activity. Regular exercise and mindfulness activities are key during times of crisis. Exercise and mindfulness activities help mitigate depression and anxiety while improving cognition and confidence. Develop a daily routine for both, even if this is as simple as a 15-minute walk and/or quiet time with deep breathing.
  • Time and Energy Management. Be mindful of over- or under-working. Try to structure your daily work in a way that mirrors your normal workplace hours. In addition to time management, be aware of the way in which you eat, self-talk, and communicate with others. Self-compassion and self-care provide stability and confidence.
  • Accessibility. Develop ways in which you are accessible to colleagues, friends and family.
  • Face Time and Connectivity. Humans need to feel and be connected. Utilize video tools such as Microsoft Teams, Skype, FaceTime, Google Hangouts, Facebook and WhatsApp to connect visually.
  • Resources. Map out your important resources, ranging from daily necessities to emergency management.
  • Support. The National Alliance on Mental Health Illness website provides a comprehensive guide to national and local resources. Know that there is help when needed.