COVID-19 Symptoms & Limiting the Spread
As members of the Columbus State community, we have a shared responsibility to each other to limit the spread of COVID-19 on our campuses. In addition to following College protocols when you’re on campus, please be mindful of the latest guidance from local and national public health authorities, including the Ohio Department of Health, Columbus Public Health and the National Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
Hand Hygiene
Mask Safety
Symptoms of Coronavirus
People with COVID-19 have had a wide range of symptoms reported – ranging from mild symptoms to severe illness. Symptoms may appear 2-14 days after exposure to the virus. People with these symptoms may have COVID-19:
- Fever or chills
- Cough
- Shortness of breath or difficulty breathing
- Fatigue
- Muscle or body aches
- Headache
- New loss of taste or smell
- Sore throat
- Congestion or runny nose
- Nausea or vomiting
- Diarrhea
Mask Types
Glove Safety
How to Protect Yourself and Others
The best way to protect yourself from the virus is by avoiding exposure and practicing good hygiene.
- Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, or use a hand sanitizer that contains at least 60 percent alcohol.
- Avoid touching your face, eye, nose and mouth, and wash or sanitize hands before and after handling your facial covering.
- Avoid close contact with others by staying at least 6 feet (about 2 arms’ length) from other people inside and outside.
- Cover your mouth and nose with a facial covering when around others
- Facial coverings should not be placed on young children under age 2, anyone who has trouble breathing, or is unconscious, incapacitated or otherwise unable to remove the mask without assistance.
- Don’t use a mask meant for a healthcare worker. Currently, surgical masks and N95 respirators are critical supplies that should be reserved for healthcare workers and other first responders.
- Continue to keep about 6 feet between yourself and others. The mask is not a substitute for social distancing.
- Cover coughs and sneezes with a tissue or the inside of your elbow, and then wash your hands.
- Clean and disinfect frequently touched surfaces.
- Monitor your health daily.
- Be alert for symptoms. Watch for fever, cough, shortness of breath, or other symptoms of COVID-19.
Especially important if you are running essential errands, going into the office or workplace, and in settings where it may be difficult to keep a physical distance of 6 feet. - Take your temperature if symptoms develop.
Don’t take your temperature within 30 minutes of exercising or after taking medications that could lower your temperature, like acetaminophen. - Follow public health and College protocols if you get sick
- Be alert for symptoms. Watch for fever, cough, shortness of breath, or other symptoms of COVID-19.
Public Health Resources
Ohio Public Health Advisory System, a color-coded system to assess the degree of the virus’ spread and empower individuals, businesses and communities in their response.
Travel Advisory, a map indicating COVID-19 positivity rates by state.
COVID-19 and Anxiety, resources for individuals and families coping with the mental stress of the pandemic.
Testing and Community Health Centers, a map of COVID-19 testing sites in Ohio with filters by county and ZIP code.