2026 COVID Policy & Information

Purpose

Viruses constantly change through mutation and sometimes these mutations result in a new variant of the virus. Some variants emerge and disappear while others persist. The new variants of COVID are particularly troubling because they spread more easily and quickly than previous variants. 

In terms of Wasatch-Uinta Field Camp, a runaway outbreak of COVID at camp will greatly impede our ability to conduct the course. In a worst case scenario, it may force us to close camp early, jeopardizing the academic careers of students who need field-based units to satisfy graduation requirements and licensure as a professional geologist.

Field Camp is an immersive educational experience. To protect the health of all participants and maintain continuity of instruction, we have updated our COVID-19 protocols for 2026. These guidelines reflect current public health practices and focus on symptom-based testing and mitigation.

Before Arriving at Camp

Health Screening Before Travel (recommended, not required)
We do not require a mandatory COVID-19 test before travel unless you are experiencing flu-like symptoms (e.g., fever, cough, sore throat, shortness of breath, headache, muscle aches, chills). If you have symptoms consistent with a contagious respiratory illness, please stay home, test, and only travel once your symptoms have resolved or a test shows you are not positive for COVID-19.

What to Bring

To support health and safety for yourself and others:

• At least 2 high quality masks — e.g., well-fitting surgical masks or respirators (e.g., KN95/N95).
  These are to be used if you develop symptoms while at camp or are advised to mask.
  (High-quality masks offer better source control and protection and are recommended when symptomatic. )

• Optional COVID-19 test kits — while not required, bringing rapid tests can help you monitor your status if symptoms develop. You may be required to purchase these in Utah if you develop flu-like symptoms.

You are not required to bring or show a COVID-19 vaccination card.

While at Camp

Symptom Monitoring
Participants are expected to monitor themselves daily for flu-like symptoms. If you develop symptoms of a respiratory infection:

1. Get tested for COVID-19 promptly (using your own rapid test, we will bring you get one)

2. If you test positive for COVID-19:

   • Isolate yourself from the group.

   • Mask whenever you are around others (indoors or outdoors) until you are no longer symptomatic.

   • You may return to regular activities once symptoms have improved and you are fever-free for 24 hours without fever-reducing medication (consistent with current CDC isolation guidance). 

Mask Usage During Illness
If you are symptomatic or test positive, you must wear your high-quality mask around others to reduce the risk of transmission. Otherwise, masks while asymptomatic are optional unless local conditions or instructors advise otherwise.

Isolation and Care
Camp staff will support and advise any participant who becomes symptomatic or tests positive. We will follow public health recommendations to determine appropriate isolation practices and when it is safe to resume normal participation.

Rationale

These protocols focus on early symptom identification and responsive actions to limit spread within the group while minimizing pre-camp barriers for participation. They reflect evolving public health guidance emphasizing isolation when symptomatic and source control to reduce transmission risk. 

Communication and Compliance

Camp leadership and health officers are available to answer questions about these protocols. All participants are expected to follow these policies to help keep the community safe and ensure a successful field experience.