January 23, 2020—From Dr. Sarah Van Orman, Chief Health Officer, USC Student Health, Keck Medicine of USC
We want to update the campus community on the Wuhan Novel Coronavirus (2019-nCoV) that is causing an outbreak of respiratory illness first identified in Wuhan City in China. National and global public health officials are closely following this developing situation.
At present there are no cases in the campus community. We will continue to monitor the situation closely and work with our local LA County Public Health Department. We will update the community on any new developments.
All members of our campus communities are reminded to take precautions to prevent spread of infectious disease (attached in the following pages). The precautions will help reduce your risk of many respiratory infections including influenza, which is widespread in Los Angeles County. Handwashing hygiene and respiratory hygiene (covering your nose and mouth when you cough or sneeze; avoiding touching your eyes) are proven prevention measures.
< See the related Q and A on the Wuhan Novel Coronavirus >
USC Student Health, Keck Medicine of USC, advises persons who recently traveled from Wuhan or other affected areas (in the past 14 days) or have had close contact with some suspected of having an infection with the novel coronavirus to watch for flu-like symptoms (fever and respiratory symptoms such as sore throat, cough, or difficulty breathing); and if experiencing symptoms, use a face mask, and seek immediate medical care. If you are asymptomatic (not experiencing symptoms) you do not have to be seen by a provider.
Students should call USC Student Health for medical care, 213-740-9355 (WELL). Faculty and staff should contact their healthcare provider. Be sure to call before seeking care.
Students who are experiencing increased anxiety or stress related to concerns about family in China may see a counselor; call 213-740-9355 (WELL) to arrange an appointment. Students are also encouraged to join the special “Let’s Talk” section for International Students, that is offered in the Office of International Students Royal Street Structure Suite 101, Tuesdays 1:30-2:30 p.m., facilitated by Alice Phang. Faculty and staff can contact the Center for Work and Family for counseling support, (213) 821-0800.
Additional updates will be shared with the community via email and the USC homepage: www.usc.edu.
