Wittenberg Students, Faculty, and Staff,
As reports regarding the global outbreak of the novel coronavirus (COVID-19) continue to make headlines, we want to again assure the members of our community that we are closely monitoring the situation in partnership with the Clark County Combined Health District (CCCHD), the Ohio Department of Health (ODH), and Centers for Disease Control (CDC). We also have a strong local partnership with the Clark County Emergency Planning Agency, which continues to assist us in our emergency preparedness.
While there are no confirmed cases of the virus in the state of Ohio and the risk to the United States as a whole is still low, the health and safety of our community remains a top priority. As such, we are temporarily restricting any University-sponsored travel to the countries currently on the CDC’s Level 3 list. We are discouraging travel to Level 2-listed countries, as well.
In light of our upcoming spring break and the rapidly evolving situation with COVID-19, we are also strongly encouraging all members of our community to continue to review the travel-related guidelines outlined by the CDC. For those choosing to travel to countries listed as Level 2 or Level 3, please know that the University reserves the right to limit your return to campus until the current 14-day incubation period has expired.
To assist you in being pro-active during this time, the ODH website and CDC website both offer comprehensive overviews regarding the virus and the precautionary steps you can take to prevent the spread of respiratory illnesses. These steps include:
- Routinely washing your hands with soap for 20 seconds during each time.
- Avoiding touching your eyes, nose, and mouth with unwashed hands.
- Avoiding close contact with people who are sick.
- Staying home when you are sick.
- Covering your cough or sneeze with a tissue, then throw the tissue in the trash.
- Cleaning and disinfecting frequently touched objects and surfaces.
As for symptoms and the incubation period, the ODH’s site reports that “people who have been diagnosed with novel coronavirus have reported symptoms that may appear in as few as 2 days or as long as 14 days after exposure to the virus.” Symptoms include fever, cough, and difficulty breathing.
If you have been in contact with anyone who has been exposed to COVID-19 and are experiencing symptoms, please contact the Health Center immediately at 937-327-7811 or call the walk-in clinic at 937-523-9050.
We will continue to monitor the global impact of COVID-19 along with the CCCHD, ODH, and CDC, and provide additional updates as needed.
Regards,
Casey Gill
Vice President for Student Life and Dean of Students
Rob Young
Vice President for Finance and Administration