Health officials worldwide are closely monitoring the outbreak of illness caused by the newly identified coronavirus (2019-nCoV). The epicenter of this outbreak is Wuhan, China, where the majority of new cases continue to occur. Lesser numbers of cases have now been reported in several other countries, including five in the United States.
 
To date, there have been no cases of 2019-nCoV reported at the university or in the state of Georgia. However, we recognize that this is a rapidly evolving situation and that the recommendations of the U.S. Department of State and the Centers for Disease Control can change frequently.
 
We encourage all students and parents to monitor the CDC website as it provides the most current reference. Link: Novel 2019-2020 Coronavirus Infections - Click here for more information from the CDC.
 
The University Health Center is working closely with campus partners, infection control experts at the Georgia Department of Public Health (DPH) and the CDC to stay abreast of and be prepared for this evolving public health issue.
 
Symptoms of coronavirus are similar to the flu, which currently remains the higher risk for our population, as this is also the time of year when we typically see a rise in cases of seasonal flu.
 
Students who have traveled from China in the past 14 days and have a fever, cough, or difficulty breathing should contact the Health Center or seek appropriate care immediately.
 
All patients arriving at the University Health Center with cough, sneezing, sore throat, fever, and respiratory issues will be masked to protect other patients as we evaluate the cause of their illness.
 
All patients will be asked to provide a travel history to determine if they are at risk for the newly identified coronavirus. We are also mindful of the increased stress caused by the situation.
 
Prevention is a key strategy with any virus, such as influenza or this coronavirus, so it is important to both protect yourself and take measures against spread to others. Click here to learn more about prevention and access to the Health Center.
 
Sincerely,
Garth Russo, MD
Executive Director
University Health Center
Division of Student Affairs