The best option to prevent the spread of COVID-19 is to get the most recent COVID-19 booster. Consider wearing a mask when community levels are medium or higher. Individuals who are immunocompromised or have other health risks are strongly encouraged to wear masks when community levels for COVID-19 are high.  


COVID can present with a wide range of symptoms ranging from mild to severe, including fever or chills, cough, difficulty breathing or shortness of breath, fatigue, muscle or body aches, headache, loss of taste or smell, sore throat, congestion or runny nose, nausea or vomiting, and diarrhea. 


If you are exposed to COVID-19, get tested at least five days after exposure or when you first experience symptoms. Monitor symptoms and wear a mask around others for ten days. Most people with COVID-19 have mild illness and can recover at home. You can treat symptoms with over-the-counter medicines, fever, and pain-reducing medications such as acetaminophen (Tylenol), ibuprofen (Motrin, Advil), and cough suppressants. Drink plenty of fluids regularly to prevent dehydration. Rest as needed and return to normal activities as you feel better. 


If you test positive for COVID-19, stay home for at least five days and isolate yourself from others, as you are likely more infectious during these first five days.  Everyone should maintain a supply of COVID-19 home self-testing kits. If you have symptoms of COVID-19 or think you have been exposed to someone who has tested positive for COVID-19,  follow CDC recommendations


Schedule an appointment to be seen right away if you are at higher risk of severe complications from COVID-19 due to a chronic medical condition. Medications that can help prevent serious complications should be started immediately. Call 911 or seek emergency medical attention for trouble breathing, persistent pain or pressure in the chest, confusion, inability to wake or stay awake, pale, gray, or blue-colored skin, lips, or nail beds, or a persistent fever that doesn’t improve despite taking medications.

Information on this page is for current Wake Forest students.
Faculty and staff should refer to the Campus Health website.