Respiratory Virus Information and Guidelines (including COVID19, Influenza, RSV and others)

Williams’ Respiratory Illness policies are designed to help us safely provide the core aspects of a Williams education: in-person learning and exploration, chances to socialize with friends and colleagues, and opportunities to engage with our community and the world.

We follow the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) guidelines for management recommendations for respiratory viruses, including COVID-19, influenza, and RSV.

As always, it is highly recommended that a mask be worn in public if you have any symptoms, including but not limited to fever, cough, congestion, sore throat, or body aches.

Please call the Health Center with any questions or if you need to schedule a visit for further support at (413) 597-2206.

While the college can and will take steps to create a safe environment, no one can guarantee a risk-free campus. Students must also take steps to protect their own health and safety. By enrolling at Williams, you have agreed that you will do your part; avoid endangering yourself or others; and comply with the college’s rules and protective measures. As a reminder, all enrolled students must sign the Public Health Commitment and Acknowledgement (available through the housing portal) attesting to this promise.

The college periodically amends our plans and policies in response to emerging health concerns. These decisions are guided by information from the CDC, state officials and our local health board, and consultation with national public health experts. The college administration will announce and explain any changes as promptly as possible.

We also think this guidance works when managing other fever-related illnesses.

    • Stay up to date with recommended vaccinations including COVID-19 and Flu vaccines. Although vaccinated people sometimes get infected with the virus, vaccinations significantly lowers the risk of getting very sick, being hospitalized or dying from the virus.
    • Practice good hand hygiene.
    • Take steps for cleaner air.

    • Students are no longer required to show proof of COVID vaccination, though Williams strongly recommends that they be vaccinated and stay up to date with boosters.
    • For questions about boosters and vaccines, contact Student Health Services.

  • Examples of respiratory virus symptoms

    • Use precautions to prevent spread, including staying home and away from others if you have respiratory symptoms that aren’t better explained by another cause. These symptoms can include fever, chills, fatigue, cough, runny nose and headache among others.
    • Individuals should stay put in their dorm/home if they are not feeling well and running a fever
    • You should not attend class, athletics, work, or social activities until you meet the criteria listed below for at least 24 hours:
      • You can return to your normal activities when, for at least 24 hours both are true:
        • Your symptoms are getting better overall and
        • You have not had a fever (and are not using fever reducing medication)
    • When you return to your normal activities, take added precaution for the next 5 days. This includes:
      • Wearing a mask
      • Putting distance between yourself and others in public and at home
      • *These precautions will help to lower the risk of respiratory virus transmission and spread.
    • Students may obtain masks at the Health Center.

    • If you are experiencing possible respiratory symptoms and need additional support in your care call the health center for an evaluation.
    • The college no longer provides asymptomatic testing or free testing kits for home use.

    • Try to keep at least 6 feet of distance between yourself and your roommates.
    • Open the window, weather permitting
    • Please work to communicate with each other to respect each other’s needs

    • When you are experiencing respiratory symptoms, and have not met the criteria to return to your normal activity, you may enter the dining halls wearing a mask.
    • Available locations in Paresky include Whitman’s and all of the GET mobile app sites: The ’82 Grill, Fresh ‘n Go, and Lee Snack Bar.
    • If you choose Whitman’s you may go through the buffet lines as long as you take the food back to your room.
    • You may also have a friend pick up food for you and leave it at your door.

    • Students may use any appropriate bathroom.
    • If you are sick please be respectful and wear a mask when appropriate, use proper hygiene and distancing as able.