Communicable diseases, those that have serious effects on human health, can pose a threat to the college community. The College will take all reasonable measures to ensure the safety of members of the college community during global and local infectious disease events. Communicable disease is defined as an illness due to a specific infectious agent or its toxic products that arises through transmission of that agent or its products from an infected person, animal, or reservoir to a susceptible host, either directly, or indirectly through an intermediate plant or animal host, vector, or the inanimate environment. Examples of communicable disease include but are not limited to acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS), coronavirus-19 (covid-19), chicken pox, hepatitis, measles, tuberculosis, meningitis, mononucleosis, whooping cough, and other viral diseases that reach a pandemic level, and for purposes of this Policy only, those communicable diseases which constitute a disability pursuant to the Americans with Disabilities Act. (Policy 3.4.5/2.1.10)
Transmittable Vectors (Bed Bugs, Scabies, Lice, and Other External Parasites)
In alignment with best practices for infection control and student safety, any student who is suspected or confirmed to have a condition associated with a transmittable vector—such as bed bugs, scabies, lice, or other similar infestations—may be temporarily removed from classroom/laboratory/clinical settings to prevent the potential spread to others.
Students must report such conditions immediately to the appropriate faculty or staff. Documentation from a licensed healthcare provider, public health authority, and/or licensed pest control management company confirming evaluation, treatment, and clearance (including environmental inspection and remediation if applicable) will be required prior to returning to campus or clinical activities. Students in a program that requires a clinical/practicum/work-based learning component may be required to meet additional burdens of proof as requested by the clinical site or industry partner hosting the student for learning opportunities.
Timely treatment and resolution of the issue is essential. Failure to meet treatment and clearance expectations within a reasonable timeframe may result in missed instructional time or laboratory/clinical hours. If these absences prevent the student from meeting attendance policies, course objectives or program outcomes, it may impede progression in the course or program of study.
Our goal is to respond with sensitivity and discretion while ensuring the safety and well-being of all students, faculty, clients/patients, and industry partners. All cases will be handled confidentially and in accordance with applicable privacy laws and institutional policies.