Frequently Asked Questions- COVID-19 Testing
March 3rd, 2022 UPDATE:
Revisions to the Yosemite Community College (YCCD) COVID-19 testing requirement, as noted below, were approved by the YCCD Board of Trustees at their study session held on March 2, 2022.
The Board of Trustees agreed to take the recommendation of Chancellor Yong for the next phase of testing requirements that would include providing testing for individuals who are symptomatic, exposed or interested in reducing the time of isolation, to be effective March 3, 2022. The current masking requirement would continue through the end of the Spring semester 2022.
View the YCCD Board of Trustees Study Session Agenda and Video
What you need to know:
- Proof of vaccination against COVID-19 or negative test results (green health pass) will no longer be required to utilize YCCD facilities including classrooms and service areas, effective March 3, 2022.
- Free COVID-19 testing for students and staff will continue to be available at Columbia College Health Services Office.
- Masks are required for entry into all facilities/indoor areas.
- If you are experiencing symptoms of COVID-19 test immediately and follow all recommended guidance- you will be contacted with more information once your Notification form is received.
- If you have been exposed to or tested positive for COVID-19 do not come to campus and follow all recommended guidance- you will be contacted with more information once your Notification form is received.
Q. Am I required to test to come to campus/in-person classes?
A. No. COVID testing is now optional, as of March 3rd, 2022. If you need a testing kit, they will provided still, free of charge. Please visit the Health Services office or the Manzanita lobby, Information Desk to pick up a testing kit if needed.
- If you are experiencing symptoms of COVID-19 test immediately and follow all recommended guidance- you will be contacted with more information once your Notification form is received.
- If you have been exposed to or tested positive for COVID-19 do not come to campus and follow all recommended guidance- you will be contacted with more information once your Notification form is received.
Q. I am vaccinated, do I need to test?
A. If a vaccinated individual becomes symptomatic or exposed to a positive COVID-19 case, test immediately and follow all recommended guidance- you will be contacted with more information once your Notification form is received.
Q. What if I attend classes at MJC too (concurrently enrolled)?
A. The Board Of Trustees decision from March 3rd, 2022 covers both Columbia and MJC campus locations.
Q. What if I take a college course through Columbia College at a high school or other location in the community?
A. Access to other community sites is determined by those sites, not Columbia College or YCCD. Please check with those locations for more information as needed.
Q. What if I have not tested yet and I come to campus to get help?
A. Testing is now optional, as of 3/3/22.
Q. How do I get tested if I cannot use the Scanwell® Health app (used by the BD Veritor Home Test Kits)?
A. Use the Testing Options page to help select the best option for your own situation.
Q. What if I am under 18 years old and the Scanwell® Health app is for adults?
A. Contact the Columbia College Health Services office at 209-588-5283 to arrange in-person testing. Additionally, you will be given the option to use another COVID-19 testing provider and record those results with the Health Services office. Please contact our Campus Nurse in the Health Services office for any additional questions.
Q. What if my test result is "positive" for COVID-19?
A. Anyone who tests positive for COVID-19 will need to 1) isolate, 2) submit the COVID Notification Form, and 3) look for email instructions on when and what criteria you need to meet personally to return to campus. Continue to communicate with the YCCD official that contacts you for any further questions.
All COVID-19 College and District guidelines still apply
Q. What if I have COVID-19 symptoms (regardless of vaccination status)?
Individuals that have COVID-19 symptoms (regardless of vaccination status) are recommended to stay home. Test immediately with the at-home kit provided or use any other testing site (all counties have free sites available). Begin isolation and submit a COVID -19 notification form ASAP for guidance on testing, isolation, quarantine, and return to campus. The form is found on main campus webpage under COVID-19 Info.
Signs or symptoms of COVID-19 include:
- 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
