02/28/20 - Coronavirus Preparedness

Dear NKU Campus Community:

The Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) remains top of mind as a serious health concern around the world, and we are being vigilant as the situation evolves. We have assembled a team led by Provost Sue Ott Rowlands to ensure our campus is prepared if our region is impacted. The cross-divisional team consists of representatives from student affairs, international programs, health and safety, academic affairs, marketing and communications, HR and legal.

It is important to note there are zero reported cases of Covid-19 virus at NKU or in the region.

Our top priority is the health, safety and security of our students, faculty and staff. Even as coronavirus cases in the United States and around the world increase, we must also keep in mind that it is flu season. To reduce the spread of any illness, the Centers for Disease Control recommends people with a fever of 100 degree Fahrenheit or higher stay home until they are fever free for at least 24 hours. Not everyone with flu will have a fever, so individuals with suspected or confirmed flu cases should stay home at least 4-5 days after the onset of symptoms. If you do become sick, you should contact Health, Counseling & Student Wellness at 859-572-5650, or visit your local health care provider.

These practices are also recommended for good health:

1. Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, especially:
   
   Before, during and after you prepare food,
   Before you eat and after you use the bathroom,
   After handling cash,
   More frequently when someone in your home is sick.
   
   
2. Use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer if soap and water are not available.
3. Frequently clean doorknobs, light switches, phones and other items commonly touched with disinfectant wipes.
4. Avoid contact with people who are obviously sick.
5. Cover your cough or sneeze with a tissue and then discard it in the trash.

The NKU team will continue to monitor coronavirus developments and will communicate any new information or recommendations. We also created a coronavirus preparedness website with campus information and links to various agencies and offices, including the CDC’s website– the best source of up-to-the-minute information. NKU health personnel will continue taking precautions and work with local and state health departments.

NKU’s Office of Education Abroad has reached out to our students who are currently in South Korea and Japan and will stay in close contact with them. We are working with our partner institutions there to monitor their safety. With respect to planned study abroad programs, since this is an evolving situation, we are vigilantly monitoring any developments and will act in the best interest of our students. Any cancellations of study abroad programs will be based on the latest information we receive. If you have questions about upcoming trips and/or opportunities, please contact the Office of Education Abroad at 859-572-6908.

Once again, your health and safety are our No. 1 priorities. Thank you for being a partner in keeping our campus and region well.

Sincerely,
Ashish