Message to campus regarding Coronavirus
Dear Western Community:
Western Washington University health officials have been closely following an emerging public health situation regarding an outbreak of pneumonia caused by a novel strain of coronavirus, “2019 Novel Coronavirus” (2019-nCoV), in Wuhan, China.
A "novel coronavirus" is a strain that has not previously been found in humans. This coronavirus can lead to fever, cough, and shortness of breath. Most people with these infections have reported exposure to a large seafood and live animal market in Wuhan, but there is also evidence of human-to-human transmission. Over 2,800 cases worldwide have been confirmed – including 81 deaths – mostly in the Wuhan, China area, but elsewhere as well, including among people who have traveled internationally from China. Several cases have been reported in the United States, including in Everett, Washington. State health officials are monitoring the situation. The Washington State Department of Health has a website about the Coronavirus.
There are currently no identified cases in the WWU community. Student Health Center staff are working closely with local and state agencies to monitor the situation and protect the health and well-being of the WWU community.
Consistent with the recommendations of the World Health Organization, WWU community members are advised to avoid travel to the Wuhan area of China for the time being. The Centers for Disease Control has updated its “Travel Health Notice” for this destination to avoid nonessential travel.
We have communicated with members of the WWU community who may have recently traveled from the Wuhan area or who were studying in China about health resources available if they start exhibiting any symptoms.
The World Health Organization continues to meet on this situation. We will provide updated information based on the outcome of these meetings.
We have updated the Student Health Center website with more information about the Coronavirus, including frequently asked questions.
Students who have symptoms of fever, cough and body aches and are feeling concerned, can call the Student Health Center at 360-650-3400 and ask to speak to a nurse. Faculty and staff should contact their physician.
Here are some additional resources:
World Health Organization (WHO) information about Coronavirus
US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) Situation Summary
Johns Hopkins University Global Map of Coronavirus Cases
Sincerely,
Sislena Ledbetter
Executive Director for Health and Wellness
Western Washington University