Hello Everyone,
We are using this post to put informational and preventative actions you all can take with regards to COVID-19. As a large institution are doing the best we can to prevent the potential spread of the virus. We are encouraging everyone to thoroughly and repeatedly wash their hands. On our end, we are consistently swapping out serving utensils, sanitizing tables, chairs, and counters, in addition to making self-serve stations, served. We are continuing to meet with university officials daily to come up with a plan for the rest of the term and school year. We will keep you all updated as soon as we get more information. Please read information from the CDC below to stay educated on what the virus is and how to prevent it.
What is 2019 novel coronavirus?
The 2019 novel coronavirus (COVID-19) is a new virus that causes respiratory illness in people and can spread from person-to-person. This virus was first identified during an investigation into an outbreak in Wuhan, China.
How does COVID-19 spread?
The exact way the virus is spread is not fully known. With similar coronaviruses (MERS and SARS) person-to-person spread is thought to have happened mainly via respiratory droplets produced when an infected person coughs or sneezes, similar to how influenza and other viruses that cause respiratory illness spread. There also may be some spread when a person touches a surface or object that has a virus on it and then touches his or her own mouth, nose, or possibly their eyes. The spread of SARS and MERS between people has generally occurred between close contacts. There is much more to learn about COVID-19 and investigations are ongoing.
What are the symptoms of COVID-19?
Patients with COVID-19 have reportedly had mild to severe respiratory illness with symptoms of:
- fever
- cough
- shortness of breath
What are severe complications from this virus?
Many patients have pneumonia in both lungs.
How can I help protect myself?
The best way to prevent infection is to avoid being exposed to this virus. There are simple everyday preventive actions to help prevent the spread of respiratory viruses. These include:
- Avoid close contact with people who are sick.
- Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth with unwashed hands.
- Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. If soap and water are not available, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer.
If you are sick, to keep from spreading respiratory illness to others, you should:
- Stay home when you are sick.
- Cover your cough or sneeze with a tissue, then throw the tissue in the trash.
- Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces.
Is there a vaccine?
There is currently no vaccine to protect against COVID-19. The best way to prevent infection is to avoid being exposed to this virus.
Is there a treatment?
There is no specific antiviral treatment for COVID-19. People with COVID-19 can seek medical care to help relieve symptoms.