February 26, 2020

Saint Joseph’s College is closely monitoring the developing situation with respect to the spread of the novel coronavirus (Covid-19) and potential impacts to our community.

We are continuing to monitor the outbreak and we wanted to share with you some important information regarding spring break travel.  The College encourages a common-sense approach for steering clear of the coronavirus or any other ailments, including, in particular, influenza.

The risk of contracting the virus still remains low, however, the CDC is urging spring break travelers to nevertheless take the following precautions:

• Check into any travel restrictions, travel advisories or any other recommendations being offered.
•  AVOID all non-essential travel to China.
•  Wear a mask if you are sick or have upper-respiratory symptoms, such as a   cough. At this time, the CDC and public health experts are not recommending that healthy individuals wear masks.
•  WASH YOUR HANDS.  The best way to prevent illness is to wash your hands   with soap and water frequently. If soap and water are not available, use hand  sanitizer.
•  DON’T SHARE DRINKS.  Many respiratory illnesses can be shared through   drinks
•  MAINTAIN GOOD HABITS.  Getting good sleep, nutrition and exercise can stave off potential illness.

According to the CDC, patients with Coronavirus have reportedly had mild to severe respiratory illness.  Symptoms may appear 2-14 days after exposure and can include a fever, cough and shortness of breath.

If you develop any of these symptoms, we encourage you to call your doctor, and additionally we advise students to contact the Health and Wellness Center located in Carmel Hall (893-6634).

We will continue to work with local health officials and are actively monitoring updates released by the CDC.  The College Health & Wellness Center will keep our community informed of any new developments.

Health and Wellness Center
Saint Joseph’s College
healthcenter@sjcme.edu