Dear Howard University Community,

On Thursday, Maryland Governor Larry Hogan confirmed three people from Montgomery County have been diagnosed with coronavirus: a husband and wife in their 70s and a woman who is in her 50s. All three patients contracted the virus while traveling overseas and are reported to be “in good condition.” They are quarantined in their homes in Montgomery County.To date, no cases have been diagnosed in Virginia or the District.

There remain no confirmed cases of Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) at Howard University at this time. University officials will continue to closely monitor COVID-19 and are actively engaged in daily planning in an effort to inform and reduce the risk to faculty, staff, students and visitors from the virus. All guidelines from the CDC, the U.S. Department of State and the World Health Organization will be followed during this process.

The campus community is encouraged to be prudent and proactive in their health regimens during this time. Although there is currently no vaccine to prevent COVID-19, the best way to prevent illness is to avoid being exposed to this virus. The CDC always recommends everyday preventive actions to help prevent the spread of respiratory diseases, including:

• Avoid close contact with people who are sick.
• Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth.
• Stay home when you are sick.
• Cover your cough or sneeze with a tissue, then throw the tissue in the trash.
• Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces using a regular household cleaning spray or wipe.
• Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, especially after going to the bathroom; before eating; and after blowing your nose, coughing, or sneezing.
• If soap and water are not readily available, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol. Always wash hands with soap and water if hands are visibly dirty.

Updated guidance would suggest that all who are ill – no matter the cause- are encouraged to stay home and communicate by phone or email to provide notice (professors, advisors, student health, etc.) that you are sick. All registered and insured students have access to our 24-hour telemedicine service www.telehelp4students.com for medical or mental health advice. You may connect via phone, app, or online to speak with a physician or mental health counselor. You can also access the United Healthcare Student Resources (UHCSR) Where for Care website www.uhcsr.com/where4care to receive options on locations that treat specific conditions in this area. If you are not improving or develop difficulty breathing, please call ahead to your provider of choice, including the Student Health Center at 202-806-7540, so that the office can prepare to evaluate you. Your healthcare professional will work with the local public health department and the CDC to determine if you need to be tested.

This is a rapidly changing situation and appropriate resources are being allocated at the University to continue to monitor, develop and execute plans to maintain the safety and well-being of our community. For more information about the coronavirus, including signs and symptoms, transmission and risk of exposure, and what to do if you are exhibiting symptoms, please refer to the CDC website.

Excellence in Truth and Service,

Department of Public Safety and

Student Health Center