Given President Trump’s declaration of a national emergency regarding COVID-19, I am directing faculty, staff and students returning from outside the United States and its territories to self-quarantine for 14 days before coming to our campus.

What is Self-Quarantine?

Take these steps to monitor your health and practice concerted social distancing:

1. Take your temperature with a thermometer two times a day and monitor for fever. Also, watch for a cough or trouble breathing.
2. Stay home and avoid contact with others. Do not go to work or school for this 14-day period. Discuss your work situation with your employer before returning to work.
3. Do not take public transportation, taxis, or ride-shares during the time you are practicing social distancing.
4. Avoid crowded places (such as shopping centers and movie theaters) and limit your activities in public.
5. Keep your distance from others (about 6 feet).

What To Do If You Get Sick

If you get sick with a fever (100.4°F/38°C or higher), cough, or have trouble breathing:

• Seek medical care. Call ahead before you go to a doctor’s office or emergency room.
• Tell your doctor about your recent travel and your symptoms.
• Avoid contact with others.

If you need to seek medical care for other reasons, such as dialysis, call ahead to your doctor and tell them about your recent travel to an area with widespread or ongoing community spread of COVID-19.

Again, my appreciation for your patience and understanding as we develop protocols during this fluid and unprecedented situation. 

Sincerely,

Sidney A. McPhee

President