COVID-19 frequently asked questions

The health and safety of the university community is Kansas State University's primary concern. There are many people working to develop best practices for returning to normal operations across the university. So far, the university has taken the following actions:

• The university's Lafene Health Center is working with the Riley County Health Department and the Kansas Department of Health and Environment to monitor the situation and mitigate the spread of diseases.
• The university is using K‐State Today, social media and the K‐State website to educate and communicate with the university community about the situation.
• Lafene Health Center offers health services to ALL K-Staters — including faculty, staff and students.

CDC always recommends everyday actions to help prevent the spread of any respiratory viruses, including

• Avoid sharing drinks, eating utensils and other practices that could transfer saliva.
• Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, especially after going to the bathroom; before eating; and after blowing your nose, coughing or sneezing.
• If soap and water are not available, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer.
• Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth with unwashed hands.
• Avoid close contact with people who are sick.
• Stay home when sick and encourage others to do the same.
• Cover coughs or sneezes with a tissue, then throw the tissue in the trash.
• Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces.
• Follow CDC recommendations if symptoms of COVID-19 develop.

Visit the CDC Prevention and Treatment page to learn more.

K-Staters with symptoms should immediately call Lafene Health Center at 785-532-6544 and ask for a nurse before they visit the health center. The Office of Student Life can answer questions about class absences. Contact the office at 785-532-6432 or stulife@k-state.edu.

Salina students with symptoms should immediately call their local doctor or StatCare, Salina Urgent Care, Mowery Urgent Care, or MedExpress and ask for a nurse  before  they visit a health center. Julie Rowe can assist with instructor notifications and answer questions about class absences. Contact Julie in the office at 785-826-2971 or jarowe@k-state.edu.

We understand that members of the K-State community may be experiencing heightened levels of anxiety during this time. Human Capital Services encourages employees who feel anxious or worried about friends and family because of the coronavirus to contact our Employee Assistance Plan, or EAP, who is available to help. K-State's EAP may be reached available 24/7 at 888-275-1205, press option 1.

As stated in the March 23, 2020 letter from Chief Diversity and Inclusion Officer Bryan Samuel and reinforced by President Myers’ #kstatestrong message, university students, faculty and staff are asked to continue to be mindful of the university’s values and Principles of Community.

Dr. Samuel may be contacted directly at bsamuel1@k-state.edu for guidance and assistance with any localized concerns.

Additional resources are available through the Association of Asian American Studies.

Campus tours and in-person admission event days may look different or be availiable virtually. K-State regrets any inconvenience. Contact admissions representatives for assistance.

Manhattan campus: The Office of Admissions will keep the admissions visit website up to date with the latest scheduling information. Contact admissions representatives anytime with further questions.
Polytechnic campus: Visit web pages will be up to date with the latest scheduling information. Contact admissions representatives anytime with further questions.