Updates on COVID-19 to students

March 3, 2020

Dear students:

As you are probably aware, the situation regarding the global COVID-19 (novel coronavirus) outbreak is evolving daily. The virus has spread to areas around the world with an accelerating and unpredictable trajectory. While there are still no known cases of COVID-19 in Colorado, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) announced last week that the virus is expected to impact the United States in a more severe way than it has to date.

In accordance with CDC and U.S. Department of State guidance, CU Denver | Anschutz has suspended student travel to China, South Korea, Italy and Iran until further notice. 

Also, with spring break approaching, please be aware that traveling anywhere -- abroad or even domestically -- carries a number of potential risks. Even a location not currently experiencing an outbreak could suddenly be declared a high-risk area, resulting in heightened exposure to the virus and barriers in returning home. If you do plan to travel, plan for contingencies in case you are not allowed to travel back to Denver.

Here’s how to protect yourself against coronavirus, flu, and other respiratory viruses, according to the Colorado Department of Public Health (CDPHE):

  • Wash your hands for 20 seconds or more with soapy water or, at a minimum, alcohol-based sanitizer, which may be less effective than soap and water.
  • Avoid close contact with anyone with cold or flu-like symptoms.
  • Cover coughs and sneezes with a tissue or your inner elbow shirtsleeve.
  • Get your flu shot and stay up-to-date on other routine immunizations.
  • Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces such as desks, keyboards, doorknobs, handrails, etc. 

The university is updating its cleaning protocols to ensure that touchpoints are cleaned more frequently. We are also continuing to monitor the situation and regularly updating the university’s COVID-19 website, which contains additional resources, FAQs and other information. You can also read a two-page fact sheet here.

Finally, we’d like to ask you to please help us prevent stigmatization by becoming familiar with the facts about COVID-19 and supporting community members with compassion and kindness.

Despite the current uncertainties we all are facing, I hope you enjoy a safe, healthy, and rejuvenating break.

Dorothy Horrell's signature

Dorothy Horrell
Chancellor

 

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