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Dorm room
As the start of the fall college term draws closer, students and parents are wondering how to remain well if the student is going to live in a shared apartment or dorm.
Many colleges and universities are requiring students to be tested for the Covid-19 virus before moving into their dorm rooms, and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has offered some guidelines for congregant living.
Because those living in such a setting are often together for social, leisure or other activities, and share laundry, kitchens, elevators, stairwells and sometimes bathrooms, social distancing can be a challenge.
The CDC suggests wearing a mask in shared settings, keeping hand sanitizers in common areas, and attempting to avoid crowded areas such as stairwells or elevators by waiting until the area is clear.
Likewise, the use of kitchens and laundry facilities should be staggered so that distancing may be maintained. Avoid sharing dishes, glasses, cups or silverware. Students should use totes to transport their personal items to and from shared bathrooms and avoid placing toothbrushes directly on sinks, which could be a source of infection.
Anyone who becomes sick should report the illness to staff so that appropriate steps can be taken to inform others who may have been exposed to the virus and cleaning and prevention protocols can be launched.