Student Life: Campus Health Notice, Jan. 29

January 29, 2020

Dear Campus Community,

Andrews University has been following the unfolding public health issues related to the outbreak of pneumonia caused by a new strain of coronavirus, “2019 Novel Coronavirus” (2019-nCov).

The largest impact of this virus has been felt in and around Wuhan, China. The Chinese government has quarantined a territory of 50 million people in an attempt to contain and control the virus’ spread. As of this afternoon, more than 7,344 cases have been identified around the world, with 7,251 of those cases in mainland China. There have been 132 deaths from the effects of the virus, all of them in mainland China.

Five confirmed cases of 2019-nCoV have been identified in the United States and two in Canada. All of these confirmed cases stem from individuals who had specifically traveled to Wuhan City, China, in the recent past.

Currently, there are no suspected or identified cases at Andrews University. However, University personnel, in conjunction with our University Medical Specialties team, are prepared to respond to any cases that may emerge. We will work directly with local and state agencies to monitor the situation and the health of our Andrews University community.

Travel Precautions

As of Jan. 27, the Centers for Disease Control has issued a Level 3 Warning toAVOID ALL NONESSENTIAL TRAVEL TO CHINA.

All students, faculty or staff considering travel to China in the upcoming months are urged to consult and follow current and future CDC recommendations, including advice to consult your healthcare providers before considering travel to China.

Health Precautions

The symptoms of 2019-nCoV can be similar to those of other common viruses like those found in cold and flu season.

As a result, we encourage you to follow the health precautions that are significantly relevant at this time.

Those precautions, which can help prevent the spread of the Novel Coronavirus, the flu, or other viruses, include:

• Wash your hands regularly with soap and water and for at least 20 seconds
• If soap and water aren’t available, use alcohol-based hand sanitizer
• Avoid touching your face with unwashed hands
• Cover your cough or sneeze with a tissue, then throw the tissue in the trash
• Disinfect surfaces regularly
• Avoid close contact with someone who is sick
• Stay home if you are sick

What To Do If You Are Sick

Students and employees who have symptoms of fever, cough, body aches or difficulty breathing and are feeling concerned should contact University Medical Specialties (residential students) at 269-473-2222 or your local healthcare provider (community students and employees). This especially applies to those who have traveled to China in the last 14 days. If you are seeking care, call ahead to your provider’s office and advise them of your recent travel and symptoms.

We also encourage students to reach out to Campus & Student Life (269-471-3215), the Counseling & Testing Center (269-471-3470), Campus Ministries (269-471-3211) or International Student Services & Programs (269-471-6395) if you have additional, non-medical concerns or questions related to this global health situation.

Additional Information/Resources on 2019-nCoV Virus

World Health Organization (WHO) information about Coronavirus
U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) Situation Summary
CDC World Map on Confirmed Cases
Updated South China Morning Post (Hong Kong) Summary of Global Impact

With care,

Frances Faehner
Vice President, Campus & Student Life