The Campus Emergency Response Team (CERT) emailed the campus community with advice for those who have traveled to China and information about study abroad programs.
Dear Campus Community,
The College continues to closely monitor updates from the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), World Health Organization (WHO), and the U.S. Department of State in regard to the status of the Coronavirus health concern, both internationally and in the United States.
While we know of no Gettysburg College community members who are currently in the affected areas or presenting symptoms on campus, out of an abundance of caution, we are sending this information to raise awareness and to keep the College community informed.
If you have traveled to China or an impacted area, had close contact with someone who has traveled there, AND you have a high fever and cough, please call the Health Center (717-337-6970). If the Health Center is closed, please call the Department of Public Safety (717-337-6911). Employees who meet these criteria please contact emergency services at the hospital or your family provider.
We ask community members to follow the travel recommendations issued by the CDC and U.S. Department of State. For those who are traveling on College business, domestically or internationally, with or without students, please register your trip with the College.
For your information, Gettysburg’s study abroad program providers in Shanghai and Kunming, China have canceled their programs for spring 2020. All Gettysburg students who were scheduled to study in China have been accommodated on campus in Gettysburg, or on an alternative study abroad program. Students who are studying globally in other parts of the world or other community members who are traveling should heed the advice of the CDC, the WHO, Gettysburg’s Medical and Travel Security Assistance Service (ISOS), and local contacts.
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. Please use hand sanitizer stations that have been placed at key locations on campus.
- Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth. Illnesses spread this way.
- Avoid close contact with sick people.
- The College has placed masks in the CUB and Dining Center. A person wearing a mask does not necessarily indicate illness.
It is important to remember that we are also seeing an uptick in seasonal flu. If you are experiencing flu-like symptoms, which could present as a fever, cough, and muscle aches, students should visit the Health Center and employees should contact their family physician and supervisors for work arrangements. We can also anticipate an increase in class absences and appreciate the support and understanding of faculty during this time.
Our team and community will continue to emphasize the safety and well-being of our community members.
Please reply to this email if you have questions and your inquiry will be forwarded to the appropriate party.
Thank you,
Campus Emergency Response Team (CERT)