Dear Students, Faculty and, Staff,
I’m sure you’ve been following the news about the spread of the 2019 Novel Coronavirus within China and subsequent cases being confirmed in Chicago and other cities in the United States. Health officials in the United States are closely monitoring the spread of this illness and implementing procedures to screen travelers coming to the U.S. from China. News coverage on the spread of this virus can cause anxiety. Please let me assure you the threat of the coronavirus on the Illinois State University campus is quite low.
Illinois State’s Student Affairs, Student Health Services, and Emergency Management officials have closely monitored developments with the spread of the coronavirus since it was first reported in international news. Even though the overall threat to the campus from the coronavirus is considered low, please be assured that Illinois State University takes this issue very seriously and is taking steps to keep the campus community safe.
The healthcare protocols for monitoring and response used at Illinois State follow those for any communicable illness, such as influenza, mumps, measles, and others. Practices include asking individuals for travel and medical history, increased medical assessment of individuals believed to be presenting with symptoms of concern, isolating potentially infected individuals, and collaborative work with local hospitals, the McLean County Health Department, and the Illinois Department of Public Health. Illinois State’s Division of Student Affairs also has an ongoing campus education campaign about preventing the spread of illnesses and proper steps people should take if they become ill.
Illinois State has identified a small number of students, faculty, and staff who have traveled to and from China in recent months. At this time, the University has not received any reports of individuals presenting symptoms associated with the coronavirus. Illinois State staff will continue to monitor developments and will implement appropriate campus response plans if needed.
Illinois State University takes campus safety and security very seriously and is continually assessing and enhancing its preparedness and response efforts. Students with questions can contact Student Health Services by visiting the office in the Student Services Building or by calling (309) 438-8655. Faculty and staff members are encouraged to contact their primary care provider.
For more information about the coronavirus, visit the Student Health Services website which includes links to the most current, verified information and recommendations.
Sincerely,
Christina Nulty, M.D.
Director, Student Health Services
