February 3, 2020
Please note that the University has placed a moratorium on all university-sponsored student travel to China until the health concern has been lifted. If you are planning to travel abroad in the near future, please feel free to stop by the University Health Center for travel-health tips and/or best practices.
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
January 29, 2020
Message to the University Community Regarding Coronavirus
Given the recent national attention regarding the outbreak of the 2019 Novel Coronavirus (2019-nCoV) in China and its incidence within the United States, it is important that we are well-informed, aware of all inherent risks and taking all necessary precautions to ensure a healthy campus environment moving forward. Morgan is a global university with students and faculty studying and conducting research around the world, so it is in our best interest to be mindful of what is happening beyond our borders. And equally cognizant of how matters like this impact us at home.
The coronavirus is a virus identified as the cause of an outbreak of respiratory illness first detected in Wuhan, China. While the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) considers this as a serious public health concern, based on current information, the immediate health risk from a coronavirus to the general American public is considered low at this time. The University Health Center is actively monitoring the outbreak of respiratory illness and will remain in ongoing communication with local city and state health officials, sharing new information as it becomes available.
To lessen the probability of contracting and/or spreading respiratory viruses, the following measures are recommended:
- 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.
- Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth with unwashed hands.
- Avoid close contact with people who are sick.
- 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.
- Get your yearly flu shot to prevent complications (the Health Center is currently offering FREE flu vaccines to students with MSU Insurance).
If you have recently traveled to Hubei Province/China and are experiencing fever (greater than 100˚F or 37.8˚C), cough, or difficulty breathing, report immediately to the nearest hospital emergency department. If possible, call ahead to alert the facility of your symptoms and travel history. When you arrive at the facility, notify personnel immediately of your symptoms and travel history. The University Health Center is currently offering screening for coronavirus to returning travelers from China concerned about possible exposure, even if you only have mild respiratory symptoms. Some cases may involve testing performed by a CDC laboratory.
We appreciate your attention and caution as it relates to this matter. To learn more about preventative measures please visit the University Health Center online, or for more information on the coronavirus, please visit the CDC website.