The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention is closely monitoring the 2019 Novel Coronavirus (2019 nCoV) and has recently confirmed the nation’s first case in the state of Washington. This evening, there are reports of a possible case in Texas.
Keeping the Rice community safe and healthy is extremely important, so we want to make sure our community is aware of how we can work together to mitigate illness on our campus.
If you traveled to China in the last 14 days and feel sick with fever, coughing or difficulty breathing, you should:
- Seek medical care right away.
Students: Call Student Health Services immediately.
Employees: Before you go to a doctor’s office or emergency room, call ahead and tell them about your recent travel and your symptoms.
- Avoid contact with others.
- Cancel travel plans while you’re sick.
- Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue or your sleeve (not your hands) when coughing or sneezing.
- Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. Use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer if soap and water are not available.
- Do not attend class or go to work if you are sick. Email or call your professors or supervisors to explain your situation and make arrangements to make up for the course or work you miss.
For questions about programs that may have scheduled international travel to China over the next few months, please closely monitor the CDC Travel Advisory website.
The outbreak of 2019 nCoV is a rapidly evolving situation. As important information becomes available, updates will be provided. All possible or potential cases of illness should be reported to Student Health Services.
Important links: