Exposure Guidance

Have I Been Exposed to COVID-19?

Following guidance from the Lincoln-Lancaster County Health Department (LLCHD), you should consider yourself as exposed to COVID-19 if you can answer yes to all of the following:

  • Were you within six feet of the person who tested positive for 15 or more cumulative minutes in a 24 hour period?
  • Were both of you not wearing face coverings during this time?
  • Was this interaction within a period that started 48 hours prior to when they got tested, or their first symptom started, up to the time the person finished isolation?

If you’re uncertain if you’ve been exposed, it’s best to assume that you have, especially if the person who tested positive lives in the same room/household with you.

What Do I Do If I Was Exposed?

If you have been exposed:

  • Diligently wear a face covering when around anyone for 10 days.
    • During this period, do not remove your face covering in the presence of others. This includes gyms. Do not eat meals in the presence of others.
  • Test 5 days after exposure or if you develop symptoms during the 10 days.
    • If you’ve tested positive in the last 90 days, do not test. Consult a medical professional if you develop symptoms.
    • If your test is negative, continue to wear a face covering when around anyone for the full 10 days.
    • If your test is positive, immediately begin to follow the guidance on the If You Test Positive page.

What Should I Do If I Start Experiencing Symptoms?

If an individual is experiencing symptoms associated with COVID-19 (fever/chills, cough, sneezing, runny nose, sore throat, vomiting, diarrhea, shortness of breath, fatigue, new loss of sense of smell, or body ache), they should test immediately and isolate until they receive the result. They may also want to consult a medical provider. The University Health Center can be reached at 402-472-5000.

If a COVID-19 test comes back positive, you’ll need to follow the guidance on the If You Test Positive page.