STUDENT ILLNESS POLICY
(Updated April 15, 2025)  

Columbia College is committed to providing a safe and healthy campus environment. Any student (commuter or resident) who knows, or has reason to believe, they are infected with a communicable illness (such as measles or other reportable diseases) or who poses a potential public health risk is required to report their condition promptly. 

SUPPORTING CAMPUS HEALTH & WELLNESS

In alignment with national and state public health recommendations for higher education institutions, Columbia College monitors and responds to communicable illness concerns, including but not limited to meningitis, measles, respiratory viruses, and gastrointestinal viruses. 

Students may seek medical testing and treatment through Eau Claire Walk-In Clinic (ECWC), located at 4605 Monticello Rd., Building B, Suite 2, Columbia, SC 29203. Vaccinations are also available at ECWC. ECWC offers a sliding scale payment option and services for uninsured students. 

Reporting Responsibilities for Students 

• All students must report illness using the Illness Report Form. 

• If internet access is unavailable during business hours, students should report illness to the Office of Residence Life & Housing at 803-786-3019. During non-business hours, students may contact the Columbia College Police Department at 803-786-3333. CCPD will notify the Student Affairs Administrator On-Call, who will coordinate care and support. 

• Students must inform their professors of any absences and arrange to fulfill academic responsibilities. 

• Student-Athletes: Must notify the athletic trainer by phone at 803-786-3089. 

Guidance During Illness 

Students should follow the advice of their healthcare provider. 

• Residential students with roommates/suitemates may be required to remain in their rooms during the isolation period or may request a temporary housing option through Residence Life & Housing, based on availability. 

• Commuter students should stay home and avoid campus activities while symptomatic or contagious. 

Students may resume normal activities when both of the following are true for at least 24 hours: 

• Symptoms have significantly improved, and 

• The student has been fever-free without the use of fever-reducing medication. 

Roommate Exposure Protocol 
If a student shares a room or suite with someone who is diagnosed with a communicable illness, they may have already been exposed prior to the diagnosis. Roommates at higher risk for complications (e.g., immunocompromised individuals) should contact Residence Life & Housing for assistance with possible temporary relocation. 

Institutional Notification 
In the event of a confirmed outbreak of a communicable illness, Columbia College may issue a campus-wide notification in accordance with public health protocols. The identity of affected individuals will remain confidential.