COVID-19 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

  • Isolation and Quarantine: 

    See CDC streamlines COVID-19 guidance to help the public better protect themselves and understand their risk


  • COVID – You may or may NOT have symptoms

    • Asymptomatic carrier: Many people can test positive and never develop symptoms. HOWEVER, you still can make others sick!

    • COVID Symptoms
      • Mild to Moderate:
        • These symptoms tend to be more “flu-like.”
        • Possible symptoms include:
          • Headache
          • Nausea
          • Vomiting
          • Diarrhea
          • Upper Respiratory Congestion
          • Fever
          • Cough
          • Loss of taste, and smell
        • More Severe:
          • If this occurs seek medical attention immediately.
          • You may need to call 911 for assistance.
          • Symptoms may include:
            • Shortness of breath
            • Difficulty Breathing
            • Severe Cough
            • Confused and disoriented

Students:

Step 1: Don’t panic.

Step 2: Go to http://www.unm.edu/coronavirus/ and self-report.

Step 3: E-mail professors about your situation.

Your health is our greatest concern. Please be assured that because you tested positive that you will not be discriminated against or in trouble in anyway. There is no punishment for testing positive. Reporting will only benefit you and your UNM community. We are here to help you recovery safely.

If You Have Symptoms

Day 0 (First Day of Symptoms) thru Day 5:

  • ISOLATE / STAY HOME
    • You don’t want to get other people sick.
    • You don’t want to contract another infection while your immune system is busy fighting off COVID.
  • Sleep
    • Medically proven to support your immune system
  • Stay hydrated: at least 2 liters / day (3 liters if you have a fever)
    • Fluids: water, broth, Gatorade
    • Urine should be clear to light yellow if properly hydrated and frequent (3-4 times a day).
  • Monitor your temperature.
    • Keep your temperature down with Tylenol (acetaminophen).
  • Cough and cold medicine may help Dayquil/Nyquil or Theraflu (generics work, too).
  • Be very CAREFUL and read labels - many of these over-the-counter medicines already have acetaminophen or Motrin in them. You don’t want to take extra Tylenol (acetaminophen) or Ibuprofen (Motrin). Please consult a pharmacist before purchasing.

You may end isolation after day 5 if:

  • You are fever-free for 24 hours (without the use of fever-reducing medication)
  • Your symptoms are improving

Wear a mask through day 10.

Contact SHAC at (505) 277-3136 if your symptoms worsen.

SEE ALSO: CDC Isolation and Precautions for People with COVID-19

COVID can take a great toll on one’s mental health, know that SHAC is here to help keep you mentally healthy as well! Below are great resources to help guide your mental health care.

http://shac.unm.edu/services/mental-health/index.html

https://mentalhealth.unm.edu/ 

To register, go to the NM Department of Health (NMDOH) COVID-19 Vaccine Registration System. 

See also UNM Bringing Back the Pack - COVID-19 Vaccine Information for the UNM Community.

Are you hesitant about the Vaccine?

CDC Frequently Asked Questions about COVID-19 Vaccination

What do I do once I am vaccinated?

After vaccination you will be given information to participate in the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) v-safe health checker. This smartphone-based tool utilizes text messaging to track any side effects you may get. Depending on your answers, someone from the CDC may contact you. SHAC highly recommends that you sign up for and participate in this system.

See also: