Are there going to be HEPA filters on the MVSU HVAC system?
No, we use a poly-blend filter with a low rating of 7-9. When HEPA filters are used, a higher rating is required (10 and above) which restricts the flow through the system. This may damage our systems.
How will we prevent the virus from spreading through the air conditioning system?
We will utilize a solution recommended for HVAC disinfection that will be administered by our custodial and technical staff.
What is the return for the results of the testing?
Currently, test results are provided in 3 to 5 days.
What will be considered a contact for the purpose of contact tracing? Anyone who was in a class or in the same room with that person?
A “contact” is defined as being in the presence of someone for at least 15 minutes without the parties observing requirements for social distancing and wearing a face covering.
With the mandates of mask wearing, will the university be providing masks for both students and employees?
Disposable face coverings will be issued once to students and employees.
Are you guys requiring everyone to get tested?
Yes, our current position aligns with higher authority guidelines.
Will there be a requirement for students and faculty to wear face masks?
Yes.
What’s the percentage of individuals in Itta Bena who have COVID-19?
As of July 14, 2020, there have been 588 cases reported in Leflore County Mississippi. Please refer to the MSDH website (links below) for more current information:
https://msdh.ms.gov/msdhsite/_static/14,0,420.html#raceTable or
https://msdh.ms.gov/msdhsite/_static/14,0,420.html
Will students be able to eat in the cafeteria or will it be limited to take out?
We are currently working with Thompson’s Hospitality to determine the safest measures for students to enjoy their meals. More information regarding this is forthcoming.
Is there counseling/support for faculty who are experiencing anxiety regarding returning considering the high cases and deaths in Leflore County at this time?
Yes. Faculty may use the on-campus counseling center or their private insurance for counseling services.
What happens when someone contracts COVID-19? Will students have to leave abruptly like last time?
Separate student housing has been identified for students who test positive for COVID-19. Also, such students, or on their parents’ determination, may choose to depart from the campus until the student’s medical condition improves.
What is the turnaround time for testing?
The standard turnaround time for COVID-19 test results is 3 to 10 days. We are actively looking for providers offering quicker turnaround times.
Do commuters have to get tested every day?
No one will be tested every day for the virus. However, temperature checks will be conducted every day at the entrance to the campus.
What do we do about students who go home every weekend?
All students’ temperatures will be checked upon arrival back to campus.
If you cannot get back on campus and you live in the dorm, where do you go?
If a student is not allowed back on campus and resides on campus, they will be quarantined within their residence hall room.
What if a student who resides on campus maxes out of the threshold? Where are they supposed to go if they are not allowed on campus? Are they just supposed to just find somewhere to stay?
We will house any on-campus residential student who needs to be quarantined.
Will vehicle decals look different from decals that have been issued in the past?
Yes, decals are changed yearly. They will have a different shape and design.
Does staff have to get new IDs?
Everyone will be required to receive a new identification card. You will have the option to keep the old photo or take a new one. If you choose to take a new photo, you will need to make an appointment to get a new photo.
Do we come to the police department for IDs?
Yes.
Do we have an option to ask for all our classes to be online?
Our current plan for course offerings (on-line, hybrid & face-to-face) allows for some flexibility in building students’ schedules. We will review students’ academic maps and current fall schedules to build schedules that will meet students’ needs and progress toward degrees.
What about the international students?
International students will be treated no differently from domestic students as it pertains to building/revising course schedules.
Will the academic calendar be reassessed since cases are rising every day all over south?
MVSU is continuing to monitor data and information regarding the COVID-19 pandemic. If additional modifications to our current academic calendar are warranted, we will communicate those changes through official University channels, including the MVSU website (www.mvsu.edu) and your University e-mail.