Dear Howard University Community,

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) officials warned on Tuesday that the coronavirus is likely to spread in communities in the United States. Although the federal health authorities expect a wider spread of the coronavirus in the U.S. and are preparing for a potential pandemic, they stressed that everyone should not panic but remain prepared.

Howard University understands that concerns are justifiably heightened, and we are sharply monitoring the novel coronavirus outbreak. We are also taking a proactive approach to keeping our students, faculty and staff safe and informed.

University leaders are currently engaged in high-level discussions and are working closely with government and public health agencies to ensure preparedness in the event an outbreak occurs in the District of Columbia or on the University’s campus. All guidelines from the CDC, the U.S. Department of State and the World Health Organization will be followed during this process.

There have been 14 locally-diagnosed cases of the coronavirus in the U.S. thus far, all in individuals who traveled recently to China themselves or their close contacts. The breakdown of U.S. cases is eight in California, two in Illinois and one each in Massachusetts, Washington, Arizona and Wisconsin.

An additional 40 people were diagnosed with the coronavirus from an outbreak on the Diamond Princess cruise ship in Asia, and three Americans who returned from China aboard U.S.-chartered flights were also diagnosed with the virus. The total number of cases in the U.S. has risen to 57, but CDC officials say the country could soon see more cases as the virus starts to spread through communities in areas outside China, including Iran, South Korea and Italy.

We will provide additional updates as circumstances warrant. Please take a moment to view this CDC fact sheet outlining things you should and should not do during this public health crisis.

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 (DPS)