Tuesday, January 28, 2020 6:58 PM
Dear Students, Faculty and Staff
In response to the public health concern of the 2019 novel coronavirus, Kent State University is working closely with the Ohio Department of Health, Portage County Health District and Kent City Health Department as they monitor the spread of the virus. We will continue to work with these public health agencies to ensure we are prepared should the virus reach our immediate area.
Unless you have recently traveled from China or have been around someone ill with this new coronavirus, your risk of getting sick is low. If you have traveled from China and are experiencing signs and symptoms (fever and cough), contact your doctor or the DeWeese Health Center BEFORE going to the physician’s office or health center.
*The DeWeese Health Center phone number is 330.672.2322.
Public health officials have described the immediate health risk to the campus community as low. There are no additional precautions recommended for the general public.
Steps you can take to prevent spread of flu and the common cold will also help prevent coronavirus:
- Wash hands often with soap and water. If not available, use hand sanitizer.
- Avoid touching your eyes, nose, or mouth with unwashed hands.
- Avoid contact with people who are sick.
- Stay home while you are sick and avoid close contact with others.
- Cover your mouth/nose with a tissue or sleeve when coughing or sneezing.
- Clean your doorknobs/light switches and areas commonly touched with disinfectant wipes frequently.
Currently, there are no vaccines available to prevent novel coronavirus infections.
For more information about Kent State’s response and precautions, visit www.kent.edu/uhs/coronavirus. We will post updated information on the website as it becomes available.
As Flashes take care of Flashes, remember our values of respect, kindness and purpose in all that we do.
Sincerely,
Lamar R. Hylton, Ph.D.
Interim Vice President, Division of Student Affairs
Julie Volcheck
Interim AVP, Student Affairs
Director University Health Services