Questions you’ve been asking

After getting a COVID-19 vaccine, do I still need to get tested and wear a mask?

Yes. Students and employees who meet the testing requirements must continue to be tested even if they have received COVID-19 vaccination because it may be possible for people who have been vaccinated to carry the virus and spread it to others. This should not deter anyone from getting vaccinated to protect their own health. We will simply continue to take appropriate safety measures — including wearing masks, social distancing and getting tested — until everyone who wants to be vaccinated has had the opportunity.

Will UW-River Falls be offering COVID-19 vaccines for employees?

Yes. UW-River Falls has been working closely with Pierce County Reproductive Health on its employee vaccination plans. The university intends to vaccinate employees on campus over a period of two-four days, based on the quantity of doses available.

I am an employee who lives in Minnesota. Will I be eligible to receive the vaccine on campus?

Yes. It will not matter whether you reside in Wisconsin or Minnesota. Assuming sufficient doses are available, our preference would be to vaccinate all employees who want a vaccine, as nearly everyone has some level of student contact.

What is the timeframe for the opening of a mass COVID-19 vaccination clinic on campus?

The campus community will be notified of on-campus clinic dates as soon as the dates are determined. It is unlikely that the vaccination clinic for UWRF employees will take place in March. If you do not wish to wait, you may contact your healthcare provider or pharmacist. Be aware that many clinics, pharmacies, and hospitals are still working through their 65 plus population at this time.

After getting a COVID-19 vaccine, will I test positive for COVID-19 on a viral test?

No. None of the current vaccines in use or in clinical trials in the United States can cause you to test positive on viral tests which are used to see if you have a current infection. For more information and frequently asked questions about vaccines, please refer to the CDC website.

Is there still COVID-19 testing available to community members?

Yes, UW-River Falls has teamed up with the City of River Falls to continue offering COVID-19 testing for the local community. The testing site is located at the Hoffman Park Storm Shelter, 650 Hanson Drive, River Falls. Testing appointments are available on Tuesdays from 10 a.m.- 5:30 p.m. and Wednesdays from 9 a.m.-3 p.m. Community members interested in receiving a COVID-19 test must pre-register at www.doineedacovid19test.com. Testing is free and open to the public over 5 years of age. Appointments are required.