Coronavirus Resource center
Throughout the UNC System, we are taking the necessary steps to help limit the spread of the COVID-19 virus and encourage and distribute vaccines. We appreciate our entire UNC System community’s participation in helping us reduce the spread.
REcent Messages
The UNC System and its constituent institutions are working closely with local, state, and federal health authorities to monitor developments, coordinate and share information, and provide guidance regarding COVID-19.
Messages to Chancellors from UNC System President Peter Hans
February 25, 2022 Memo Regarding UNC Institution Face Covering Protocols
August 5, 2021 Memo Regarding Fall 2021 COVID-19 Mitigation Strategies
May 20, 2021 Memo Regarding COVID-19 Vaccine Incentive Strategies
April 29, 2021 Memo Regarding COVID-19 Vaccine
Institution-Specific webpages
Deep concern for the health and safety of UNC System students, faculty, and staff members is foremost in mind.
The table provides links to coronavirus information regarding semester schedules, confirmed case dashboards, resources, instruction, housing, and facilities from each of our institutions.
Each campus has taken steps to minimize the risk of transmission on campus and has communicated community expectations to students, faculty, and staff. All precautions are in accordance with CDC and NC Department of Health and Human Services (NCDHHS) guidance to institutions of higher education, as well as with the Governor’s executive orders. These actions address four areas of focus: community standards of behavior; facilities and the environment; instruction; and services and activities.
FACULTY & STAFF REsources
Faculty and Staff
The Faculty and Staff Assistance Program provides a variety resources specific to COVID-19.
The UNC System Digital Learning team has designed Moving to Alternative Instructional Formats to help faculty employ the technology to hold remote classes.
UNC System Human Resources has developed a set of resources to support faculty and staff with well-being, resilience, and stress management during these times.
UNC System Office Staff
System Office employees may log in to Human Resources System Office COVID-19 Resources to access a variety of resources, including guidance from senior leaders, access to ComPsych, and information on remote working.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
During this unprecedented time, we understand that many of you are looking for more information. Please find some frequently asked questions below and links to additional resources, as appropriate:
Is the UNC System requiring a COVID vaccine for students, faculty, and staff?
In a memo to chancellors on April 29, 2021, UNC President Peter Hans addresses legal and policy considerations related to mandating the COVID-19 vaccination for students attending University of North Carolina constituent institutions. Read the memo.
What has the UNC System done about COVID-19?
The health and safety of our community is our top priority at the UNC System. The UNC System Office and President Peter Hans are working closely with local, state, and federal authorities to monitor ongoing developments, coordinate and share information, ensure pandemic plans are working, and provide guidance to our institutions.
Working in unison with leaders at our constituent institutions, we have shared updates regarding actions we are taking to preserve the health of our students, faculty, staff, and partners.
Where can I find the latest information about positive cases in North Carolina?
This dashboard from NCDHHS provides an overview on the metrics and capacities that the state is following.
What type of restrictions are in place for the state and our universities?
Restrictions and rules on gathering, face coverings, and measures implemented on UNC System campuses are in accordance with CDC and NC Department of Health and Human Services (NCDHHS) guidance to institutions of higher education, as well as with the Governor’s executive orders. The state’s website provides the latest information.
When and where can I get a vaccine to protect against COVID-19?
A free COVID-19 vaccine will be available to all who want it. UNC campus clinics are offering vaccines to all students, faculty and staff. Check your campus website for details. Vaccinations are also widely available in the community at retail pharmacies and other health care locations. Go to vaccines.gov/search to find a location near you or visit the NC Department of Health and Human Services.
Rest assured: you have a spot to take your shot.
How can I avoid the virus or find out if I’ve been in contact with someone carrying the virus?
You can help keep yourself and others healthy by following the guidelines below and consider adding the Slow COVID NC contact tracing app to your smartphone.
- Avoid close contact with people who are sick and put distance between yourself and other people.
- Use a cloth covering that covers your mouth and nose when leaving the house, especially when you may not be able to keep 6 feet between yourself and other people.
- Wash hands frequently with soap and water for at least 20 seconds at a time.
- Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth with unwashed hands.
- Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue when you cough or sneeze.
- Do not reuse tissue after coughing, sneezing or blowing your nose.
- Clean and disinfect surfaces that are frequently touched.
What does the CDC recommend for testing protocol?
Current CDC guidance for institutions of higher education can be found here. Their suggestions are not meant to take the place of state and local guidance.
What health organizations provide the most reliable information?
Links to relevant resources on Coronavirus:
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
- North Carolina Division of Public Health
- The North Carolina Division of Public Health’s Communicable Disease Branch
- U.S. Department of State Travel Warnings – international travelers may be subject to as much as a 14-day quarantine, and most commercial air carriers have reduced or suspended many international routes.
- World Health Organization
What mental health resources are available on UNC System campuses?
Each institution has specific information for mental health resources available.
- Appalachian State University
- East Carolina University
- Elizabeth City State University
- Fayetteville State University
- N.C. A&T State University
- North Carolina Central University
- NC State University
- UNC Asheville
- UNC-Chapel Hill
- UNC Charlotte
- UNC Greensboro
- UNC Pembroke
- UNC Wilmington
- UNC School of the Arts
- Western Carolina University
- Winston-Salem State University
- North Carolina School of Science and Mathematics
What policies does the UNC System implement to stop the spread of virus at our institutions?
Section 300.2.15 of the UNC Policy Manual, Policy on UNC System Pandemic and Communicable Disease Emergency, outline provisions covering communicable diseases or other serious public health threats that is declared be public health emergencies. See also the state employee policy.
Each of our campuses has adopted detailed COVID-19 response plans that include broad-based surveillance testing, contact tracing, isolation and quarantine protocols, reduced occupancy in on-campus housing, and other mitigation measures such as social distancing. UNC institutions’ plans are guided by guidance from the federal, state, and local public health officials and the UNC System Office.