Yale COVID-19 Testing & Close Contact Guidance

Updated September 12, 2023

Any faculty, staff, or student who develop symptoms suggestive of COVID-19 should mask and test as soon as possible with a rapid antigen test (RA test). 

  • The university has free RA tests available to faculty, staff, and students. Individuals may pick up tests by showing a valid Yale ID at one of several locations on campus, including at each residential college. RA tests are also available for purchase at most pharmacies.
  • If the result of the RA test is negative, individuals should remain masked and repeat a RA test in 48 hours. A single negative RA test does not rule out infection. A third RA test may be needed 48 hours later if symptoms persist.
  • Symptomatic individuals should remain masked and not go to work or class until 2 negative RA tests 48 hours apart. If at any time symptoms are worsening or severe, contact your healthcare provider.
  • Testing as soon as possible ensures timely access to effective COVID-19 treatments for those who test positive and are eligible.
  • COVID-19 testing guidance is provided on the Yale Health website for Yale Health dependents, spouses and retirees covered by Aetna Medicare.

Report a Positive Test Result

Any faculty, staff, or student testing positive for COVID-19 should isolate and mask immediately and report their positive result to the university by completing this self-report form. Guidance will then be emailed.

Close Contact Guidance

A close contact is considered an individual within 6 feet of an infected person for a cumulative total of 15 minutes or more over a 24-hour period masked or unmasked.

  • All household contacts, including roommates or suitemates are close contacts due to shared living spaces. 
  • Once self-reporting a positive result, you will receive an email with information on how to anonymously notify your close contacts who have a Yale email. With your help, your close contacts can be made aware of their exposure so they can take steps to test, mask, and monitor for symptoms.
  • General close contact guidance is available from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.