COVID measures for 2022/23

     
    The public health situation is much improved, as the majority of the population have been multiple-vaccinated, and almost all of the population now have some antibodies as a result of either vaccination or exposure.  The government has removed some of the protective measures that were in place, and there is no longer a need for compulsory mask wearing, additional spacing of seats, and reporting of cases to the COVID response team.
     
    Nevertheless, there is still COVID present in the community and it is prudent to retain some precautions.  The most important protective measure is that anyone who has a positive diagnosis, or has symptoms, should stay off campus and follow the HSE guidance on self-isolation.
     
    This year we expect that teaching will be held on campus, and that examinations will be held on campus.  In the event of a further outbreak that results in a change in the government guidance, we will adapt to comply those measures.
     
    The main precautions in place this year are summarised below:
     

    Attendance and self-isolation

     

    COVID diagnosis
         		 Follow the HSE advice concerning self-isolation and health precautions.  Do not come to the campus during the self-isolation period.
    https://www2.hse.ie/conditions/covid19/restricted-movements/how-to-self-isolate/
    Staff who have COVID can take Special Leave with Pay (under specific conditions), or take normal Sick Leave, or continue to work remotely if feeling well and remote working is possible.
     
    COVID Symptoms If you have symptoms of COVID you should follow the HSE advice.  Currently this is to self-isolate until 48 hours after your symptoms are mostly gone.  You should wear a face mask if you have to be around other people.
    https://www2.hse.ie/conditions/covid19/restricted-movements/how-to-self-isolate/
    Close contact There is no need to stay off-campus if you are a close contact.
    https://www2.hse.ie/conditions/covid19/close-contact/
     
    Testing Testing is no longer required in most cases.
    https://www2.hse.ie/conditions/covid19/testing/get-tested/
     

     
     

    Preventative measures – masks, separation and ventilation

     

    Mask wearing You may wear a mask if you wish. You are also advised to wear a mask if you are at high risk from COVID,  or if you have recently stopped self-isolation.
    https://www2.hse.ie/conditions/covid19/preventing-the-spread/when-to-wear-face-covering/
     
    Spacing There is no requirement for additional spacing in teaching spaces. 
     
    Ventilation It is advisable to keep a reasonable level of ventilation in all rooms.  In rooms with mechanical ventilation, the airflow has been set to higher than normal to improve ventilation. 
    There are HEPA filters in teaching spaces.

     
     

    Reporting of cases

     

    Reporting of cases If you have a confirmed COVID diagnosis (i.e. a positive test) you should report it to HSE through the HSE website.
    https://antigentesting.hse.ie/
    There is no need to report to the COVID response team.