Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19)

Wichita State University administration and Student Health Services continue to closely monitor the evolving COVID-19 (also known as coronavirus disease 2019) outbreak. The health and safety of our students, faculty and staff is our highest priority.

Student Health Services (SHS) is in regular communication with the Sedgwick County Health Department (SCHD) and the Kansas Department of Health and Environment (KDHE).

Per the CDC, this is an emerging, evolving situation. Please check links provided to receive updated information as it becomes available.

What are the symptoms and complications that COVID-19 can cause?

  • 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

CDC Symptom Self Checker

What to do If you have concerns about potential exposure and feel you are experiencing symptoms:

  • Call ahead before seeking medical care.
  • For WSU students, Student Health Services; (316) 978-4792; is open 8-5 Monday through Friday. Please call for an appointment. For Staff, Faculty and Community members please contact your local medical provider. 
  • To report a positive COVID-19 test result, required quarantine/isolation, or to express general COVID-19 concerns or ask questions, go to https://www.wichita.edu/reportit

How can I help protect myself?

  • Get vaccinated.
  • Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. If soap and water are not available, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer.
  • Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth with unwashed hands.
  • Avoid close contact with people who are sick and put distance between yourself and others.
  • Stay home when you are sick.
  • Cover your cough or sneeze with a tissue, then throw the tissue in the trash.
  • Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces.
  • Follow CDC’s recommendations for using a facemask.
What if I recently traveled internationally or in the US?

 

View the CDC travel recommendations
What if I recently traveled to an area experiencing a COVID-19 outbreak and feel sick?

If you recently traveled to an area experiencing a COVID-19 outbreak and feel sick with fever, cough, or difficulty breathing, within 14 days after you left the area, you should:

  • Seek medical care right away. Call ahead before you go to Student Health Services (316-978-4792), doctor’s office or emergency rooms, and tell them about your recent travel and your symptoms.
  • Avoid contact with others.
  • Not travel while sick.
  • Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue or your sleeve (not your hands) when coughing or sneezing.
  • Wash hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds to avoid spreading the virus to others. Use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer if soap and water are not available.

SHS has COVID-19 testing available.

How does the virus spread?

The new coronavirus seems to be spreading from person-to-person.

  • Between people who are in close contact with one another (within about 6 feet).
  • Through respiratory droplets produced when an infected person coughs or sneezes.

These droplets can land in the mouths or noses of people who are nearby or possibly be inhaled into the lungs.

Where can I find information on how I can protect myself?

The CDC hasprevention guidlines.

Can coronavirus affect my pet?
For any information regarding pets and COVID-19, please read the CDC's FAQ about animals.

For a more extensive list of FAQs, visit the CDC's FAQ website.