This message was being sent on behalf of Julie Ramsey, Vice President for College Life and Dean of Students. It contains information about COVID-19 symptoms and advice if you experience fever.
Dear Campus Community,
I wanted to provide important information to you about the recent health concern with the outbreak of Novel Coronavirus in Wuhan City, Hubei Province, China, that began in December 2019. The College routinely monitors world health issues that could pose a threat to campus. Health Services is closely tracking the information by the World Health Organization (WHO) and the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) with regard to this virus.
While we know of no students, administrators, or faculty who are currently in the affected areas, there have been community members who have been in those areas over the past few months.
If you are experiencing a fever and symptoms of lower respiratory illness (for example, cough, shortness of breath), we encourage students to call health services for information and to schedule an appointment as needed. During times when the health center is closed, please visit the Emergency Room. Employees who are experiencing symptoms should see their family doctors.
We are also seeing an uptick of the flu. If you are experiencing flu like symptoms, which could present as a fever, cough, and muscle aches, and please visit the Health Center or the Emergency Room.
All community members can take everyday actions to help prevent the spread of illness:
- Wash your hands often with soap and water. If soap and water are not available, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer and rub your hands vigorously.
- Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth. Illnesses spread this way.
- Avoid close contact with sick people.
More information can be found on the CDC website https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/or through the World Health Organization website: https://www.who.int/westernpacific/emergencies/novel-coronavirus, which also includes travel warnings and restrictions.
The College will continue to closely monitor the situation.
Thank you.