Coronavirus is making a lot of headlines across the country over the last month, but Emporia State University does not foresee any impact on campus.
Novel coronavirus (2019-nCoV) was just recently identified and is causing an outbreak of pneumonia illness. It was first identified in Dec. in the city of Wuhan, Hubei Province, China.
ESU does not have any students enrolled from that part of China, nor are there any travel abroad options there as well. Health Services Director Mary McDaniel Anschutz adds the start of the second semester and the 14-day incubation period for the illness mean the coronavirus
Director of Media Relations at ESU, Gwen Larson, says no cases have been reported at or around ESU, but the Student Wellness Center is keeping an eye out just in case.
Coronavirus is a respiratory illness that has many of the same signs and symptoms as influenza, says Larson.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has released several preventative methods for limiting exposure and infection including:
*Washing your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. If soap and water are not available, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer.
*Avoiding touching your eyes, nose, and mouth with unwashed hands.
*Avoiding close contact with people who are sick.
*Staying home when you are sick.
*Covering your cough or sneeze with a tissue, then throw the tissue in the trash.
*Cleaning and disinfecting frequently touched objects and surfaces.
There has been one potential and unconfirmed case of the coronavirus in Douglas County. Updates on the coronavirus in Kansas and more information about the can be found at www.kdheks.gov.
If you are noticing symptoms similar to those of the coronavirus, you are encouraged to call your medical provider in advance – as to allow them to prepare the necessary precautions to limit potential infections in the waiting room or during the examination. More information on the coronavirus is available at www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/.
