Kansas Department of Health & Environment
The Kansas Department of Health and Environment (KDHE) has been leading the state's response to the COVID-19 pandemic. KU has been closely following KDHE guidance to inform our own planning and response.
KDHE has provided specific guidance and materials to help colleges and universities in Kansas open as safely as possible, including eight priorities:
- Promoting behaviors that reduce spread of disease.
- Physical distancing.
- Face masks.
- Symptom and temperature checks.
- Be prepared to test.
- Understand isolation and quarantine mandates.
- Plan for alternate housing.
- Understand your role in public health response.

LOW | LOW to MEDIUM | MEDIUM | MEDIUM to HIGH | HIGH |
---|---|---|---|---|
Online Classes | Grocery shopping | Going to the rec center | Small indoor parties | Large indoor parties |
Exercising outside by yourself | Walking across campus | Studying at the library alone or with a friend | Eating at the dining hall | Participating in intramurals |
Virtual study groups | Playing disc golf | Tailgating | Community housing & activities | |
Playing video games | Attending a sporting event |
All of these ratings are subjective and can vary depending on social distancing, wearing masks, number of people and other factors.