MU releases safety guidelines for athletic department

COLUMBIA, Mo (KMIZ)

The biggest concern for every sport starting back up, across the country, has been outbreaks of COVID-19 within their facilities.

On June 25, the University of Missouri said that five people within MU Athletics tested positive for COVID-19. Four of the cases were asymptomatic.

MU released a plan on how it plans to keep not only students safe, but athletes, as well.

The plan said that before student-athletes and staff step foot into any facility they will go through a screening process and will be tested for COVID-19.

The plan said more precautions will be taken for those travelling from out of the state.

"If you are traveling back to Columbia, you must self-isolate for 5 days and be symptom-free prior to returning to Mizzou athletic facilities. If you travel away from Columbia after you arrive, you must self isolate for 5 days and be symptom-free before accessing the facilities," MU's plan said.

Once allowed back on campus, athletes and staff will face precautions day-in and day-out at every athletic facility.

The plan said that the precautions include:

The plan also said if any member of Mizzou Athletics has any symptoms of the virus, they will have to self isolate and be tested.

The decision on when the athlete or staff member will return to the facilities comes down to team physicians.

If there is a positive test within the athletics department, there is a list of guidelines the staff will follow.

The university will also include a daily self-monitoring checklist for athletes and coaches to complete.