Campus Update #2

January 29, 2020

Dear Members of the Morgan State University Community,

I am writing today to notify and provide you with an update on the outbreak of respiratory illness caused by the novel (new) Coronavirus. While there are no known cases of the Coronavirus identified on our campus, to our knowledge, through our University Health Center, we are closely monitoring updates from the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), as well as the Baltimore City Health Department and the Maryland Department of Health (MDH) on the expansion and incidence of confirmed cases here in the United States and particularly in our region.

We are firmly committed to keeping the MSU community informed and will update you accordingly. As a matter of information, please be advised that symptoms of the Coronavirus are flu-like, ranging from mild to serious, and include:

• Fever
• Cough
• Difficulty breathing

At this time of year, varying strains of viruses associated with the common cold and the seasonal flu are prevalent. To limit the spread of viruses - including the Coronavirus, we recommend that everyone take the following preventive actions:

• Wash your hands often with soap and water or use an alcohol-based hand rub.
• Try to avoid close contact with sick people.
• While sick, limit contact with others as much as possible to keep from infecting them.
• If you have mild symptoms and a lower temperature, make an appointment at the University Health Center. Individuals visiting the University Health Center (UHC) with influenza-like illness will be tested for influenza which is widespread in the US.
• Get your yearly flu shot to prevent complications. Anyone who has not received a flu vaccine this season should consider getting the vaccine. Flu shots are available at the UHC.

Those with chronic medical problems such as asthma, diabetes or illnesses that lower their immune system, or those who take medicine that lowers their immune system, are more susceptible to the transmission of viruses. It is imperative that at the onset of any presenting symptoms of illness, we advise the following:

• If you are experiencing a fever, cough, or shortness of breath, visit your healthcare provider immediately.
• Notify the UHC of your medical history so that we can send you updated information as it becomes available.
• Get your yearly flu shot to prevent complications.

To reiterate, we will continue to work closely with the state and city health departments to monitor new cases and coordinate should any confirmed cases of Coronavirus become present in our region.

To supplement individual efforts to maintain environments that reduces the transmission of viruses, the University is also taking preventative measures across campus. The Health Center, residential facilities, Facilities Management, Department of Transportation Services and Athletics are increasing efforts to clean high-touch surfaces and restrooms.

To find out more information, please Click Here for Coronavirus information link, where you will find information on updates as well as a series of FAQs (Transmission, Symptoms, Prevention and Treatment). The Health Center website will continue to be a resource where we will post updated health information.

Thank you for staying vigilant to help reduce the spread of flu and viruses on our campus.

Sincerely

Ruth N. Agwuna M.D.
Director, University Health Center