COVID-19

The Novel coronavirus is the actual virus which causes the disease named COVID-19.

Most people infected with COVID-19 will show no signs at all or very mild flu-like symptoms, such as fever, cough, and shortness of breath. Only 10 to 20% of cases have been more severe, typically in people 65 years and older, and/or with underlying health conditions, such as heart disease, diabetes, or asthma. Currently, according to the CDC, the risk to the American public is low. However, this is a rapidly evolving situation, and the risk assessment may change daily. The latest updates are available on CDC’s Coronavirus Disease 2019 website.

• Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds (see the CDC website for more information on handwashing).
  • Use an alcohol‐based hand sanitizer that contains at least 60% alcohol, if soap and water are not available.
• Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth with unwashed hands.
• Avoid close contact with people who are sick.
• Stay home when you are sick.
• Cover your cough or sneeze with a tissue, and then throw the tissue in the trash.
• Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces.
• Receive a flu vaccine if you are over the age of 6 months.

There is no recommendation from the CDC right now to wear a face mask. Masks certainly do no harm, and they can help if someone who is actively sick wears them. However, when it comes to COVID-19, if you are not sick and are around someone who is sick, maintaining proper infection control such as frequent hand washing and cough etiquette is the best form of protection.

We are closely monitoring this evolving situation in collaboration with local and federal health authorities. Our campus custodial staff will continue to disinfect campuses each day with hospital‐grade products to help offset the spread of communicable illnesses. We have trained medical personnel employed at each of our campuses who are well prepared to deliver evidence-based, high-quality medical care to our students.

Life School is exploring our opportunities for continuity of instruction during this time.

If you have had close contact with someone who has COVID-19, call your healthcare provider immediately and describe the contact you have had.

Yes. People receiving packages from China are not at risk of contracting COVID-19. From previous analysis, the CDC reports that coronaviruses do not survive long on objects, such as letters or packages.

No. Vaccines against pneumonia or the flu do not provide protection. However, vaccination against respiratory illnesses is highly recommended to protect your health. The COVID-19 virus is so new and different that it needs its own vaccine.

• Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds (see the CDC website for more information on handwashing).
  • Use an alcohol‐based hand sanitizer that contains at least 60% alcohol, if soap and water are not available.
• Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth with unwashed hands.
• Avoid close contact with people who are sick.
• Stay home when you are sick.
• Cover your cough or sneeze with a tissue, and then throw the tissue in the trash.
• Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces.
• Receive a flu vaccine if you are over the age of 6 months.