Marquette University no longer requires a five-day isolation period for students, faculty or staff who test positive for COVID-19. Exceptions remain for those who work in health care settings.
Individuals who test positive or have symptoms* of COVID-19 and other respiratory illnesses should stay home and away from others until symptoms are improving and no fever is present for at least 24 hours without the use of fever-reducing medication.
*Symptoms may include but are not limited to chest discomfort, chills, cough, decrease in appetite, diarrhea, fatigue (tiredness), fever or feeling feverish, headache, muscle or body aches, new loss of taste or smell, runny or stuffy nose, sneezing, sore throat, vomiting, weakness, wheezing.
Once returning to normal activities, it is advised to continue taking additional precautions for the next five days to decrease the spread of illness.
This includes:
- wearing a well fitted mask
- distancing from others
- practicing good hygiene by covering your coughs and sneezes
- washing or sanitizing your hands often
- cleaning frequently touched surfaces often.
Influenza, COVID-19 & Testing Information
If you have questions about COVID-19, Influenza or testing, please contact the Marquette University Medical Clinic at 414-288-7184. Marquette University Medical Clinic offers COVID-19 and influenza testing for symptomatic students only.
Respiratory Illness Prevention Strategies
All individuals should continue utilizing prevention strategies for COVID-19 and other respiratory illnesses to protect yourself and others. This includes:
The common cold and sore throats are typical, yet irritating health issues that are very frequent across college campuses. The common cold is a viral infection of the upper respiratory tract. It usually resolves on its own within 7–10 days.
Symptoms
Common cold symptoms may include:
- Sore or scratchy throat
- Runny or stuffy nose
- Sneezing
- Cough (dry or with mucus)
- Watery eyes
- Fatigue or mild body aches
- Low-grade fever (typically below 101°F)
What To Do If You Have a Cold
Most colds can be managed at home. If you are feeling sick:
- Rest and limit activity
- Drink plenty of fluids
- Use over-the-counter medications as needed for symptom relief
- Avoid close contact with others
- Wash your hands frequently
Symptoms typically improve within a week, though a cough may last longer.
Treatment & Symptom Relief
There is no cure for the common cold. Treatment focuses on relieving symptoms:
- Congestion: Decongestants or saline nasal sprays
- Cough: Cough suppressants if needed
- Sore throat: Lozenges, sprays, or saltwater gargles
- Fever or pain: Acetaminophen or ibuprofen
Always follow medication instructions and avoid combining similar medications.
How It Spreads
Cold viruses spread easily through:
- Close contact with someone who is sick
- Respiratory droplets from coughing or sneezing
- Touching contaminated surfaces and then touching your face
Students may experience multiple colds each year.
Prevention
You can reduce your risk of getting sick by:
- Washing your hands regularly
- Avoiding touching your eyes, nose, and mouth
- Covering coughs and sneezes
- Not sharing drinks or utensils
- Getting enough sleep and staying hydrated
When to Schedule an Appointment
Consider being seen at the Medical Clinic if you:
- Are not improving after 7–10 days
- Have symptoms that are getting worse
- Develop a high fever
- Have concerns about your symptoms
Mononucleosis, or “mono,” is a common viral illness among college students. Living in close proximity with others (such as in a college dorm) can increase your likelihood of getting sick. Mono is a common illness that can you leave you fatigued for months.
Symptoms
Common symptoms of mono include:
- Severe fatigue
- Sore throat (often with swollen tonsils or white patches)
- Fever
- Swollen glands in the neck
- Headache
- Loss of appetite
What To Do If You Have Mono
Mono is caused by a virus, so there is no specific cure. Most people recover with rest and supportive care.
If you have mono:
- Get plenty of rest
- Drink fluids regularly (6–8 glasses per day)
- Use over-the-counter medications for fever or pain (acetaminophen or ibuprofen)
- Use throat lozenges or sprays for sore throat relief
- Avoid alcohol while recovering
Your body’s immune system will clear the infection over time.
How It Spreads
Mono is spread through saliva and close contact, such as:
- Kissing
- Sharing drinks, utensils, or food
- Occasionally through coughing
It is less contagious than illnesses like the common cold, but precautions are still important.
Recovery & Activity
Most symptoms improve within 7–10 days, but fatigue and swollen glands may last 2–4 weeks or longer. Some students may take a few months to fully recover.
To protect your health during recovery:
- Return to activity gradually based on your energy level
- Avoid contact sports and heavy lifting for at least 4 weeks
- Avoid alcohol for 3 months
Possible Complications
Mono can sometimes cause:
- Enlarged spleen (risk of rupture with impact)
- Liver inflammation (hepatitis)
- Temporary jaundice (yellowing of skin or eyes)
Avoid contact sports and alcohol during recovery to reduce risk.
When to Schedule an Appointment
Consider being seen at the Medical Clinic if you:
- Have severe or worsening symptoms
- Are unable to manage symptoms at home
- Have prolonged fatigue
- Need guidance on returning to activity
When to Seek Urgent Care
Seek immediate medical attention if you experience:
- Severe pain under the left rib cage
- Difficulty breathing or swallowing
- Symptoms that worsen rapidly
