Student COVID-19 Information and Resources

The Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai (ISMMS) is committed to maintaining the health and safety of all students, particularly during the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic. Please refer to the sections below for updated information on COVID-19 testing, as well as guidance for both positive students and close contacts.

For any other questions related to COVID-19 policies or procedures, please contact the Student Infection Prevention Team. For concerns about COVID-19 infection or illness, please reach out to Student Health Services.

Given expanded availability to off-campus PCR testing and at-home test kits, the Student Health Center at ISMMS only offers diagnostic COVID-19 testing for students experiencing symptoms.

Diagnostic Testing Options for ISMMS students who are symptomatic include:

  • Obtain a PCR test at the Student Health Center
    • Schedule an appointment via MyChart
  • Use an FDA-authorized at-home test
    If your test is negative, either isolate and repeat the test in 24 hours or obtain a more definitive PCR test

Asymptomatic testing options for ISMMS students

1.  Isolate

If you test positive for COVID-19, you must complete the COVID-19 Case Report Form and isolate for a minimum of 5 days

  • DAY 0: the day you tested positive or symptoms started (whichever came first)
  • DAY 1: the day after your positive test (or symptom onset)

Everyone who tests positive – whether by antigen or PCR test and regardless of symptoms, prior infection, or vaccination/booster status – must isolate for at least 5 days. A longer isolation is required for individuals who:

  • Have persistent symptoms and/or fevers at day 5
  • Are unable to wear a well-fitting mask
  • Are moderately to severely immunocompromised

If you meet these criteria, please discuss an individualized plan of care with Student Health.

You do not need a negative test to return to work or class.

2.  Mask for a minimum of 10 days

If your symptoms are improving and you are fever-free for 24 hours without the use of fever-reducing medications, you may return to school/work on Day 6. You must continue to wear a well-fitting mask for at least 10 days

3.  Minimize Exposures & Contacts

  • Keep to your home or room (if you reside in a shared apartment) as much as possible: go out when others are less likely to be around and avoid highly trafficked areas.
  • Mask up when passing through common spaces (e.g. to go to the bathroom or get food from the kitchen) and try to avoid being in shared spaces when others are around.
  • Maintain distance (at least 6 feet) from other people.
  • Arrange for foods, medications, and other needed items to be delivered directly to your apartment. If possible, have a friend or family member pick up items delivered to the lobby.
  • If you share a bathroom, disinfect high touch surfaces after use (handles, light switches, counter tops, etc). Keep some disinfectant wipes on hand for ease of use should you need them!
  • Do not take public transportation.