Some colleges and universities have already begun classes, and some have yet to begin. Treasure Valley Community College opens for fall term Sept. 27, and the Residence Hall opens Sept. 23. If you are a college student returning to campus, you may be looking for tips on how to keep safe in shared living spaces such as dorms or student apartments.

Your school should already have guidance to help ensure a learning environment that is low risk for spreading COVID-19. Following that guidance and the tips below can help you to stay safe:  

• Make a plan to get vaccinated if you have not already. Vaccination against COVID-19 is the safest and most effective way to protect yourself and others from COVID-19. 
• Stay at least 6 feet apart from people you do not live with. Avoid crowded indoor spaces like busy fitness centers or gathering areas.
• Wear a mask or face covering in shared spaces with people that you do not live with or outdoors when you’re unable to stay 6 feet apart from them.  
• Keep visitors to a minimum, just like you would at home. Visiting with others outdoors is lower risk than indoors.  
• Don’t eat or drink from the same glass or dish as others.  
• Don’t place personal items like toothbrushes on shared surfaces like sinks or counters. Put these items in a tote that you can carry to avoid touching the surface. 
• Practice good hand hygiene. 
• Stay home and isolate if you are sick.  

Attending college can mean being around many people. This can increase your risk of other vaccine-preventable diseases as well. Check with your health care provider to make sure you are up-to-date on all your vaccines.