A STATEMENT FROM BSC ABOUT THE NOVEL CORONAVIRUS

For Immediate Release
Feb. 26, 2020

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) is closely monitoring the outbreak of the novel coronavirus (COVID-19), first identified in Wuhan, China, in December. As of Feb. 26, 2020, there have been 59 confirmed cases reported in the United States. While there are no cases reported as of today in Alabama, the CDC has announced that the virus is likely to spread in the United States.

While the current threat to our community is low, Birmingham-Southern College is closely monitoring the situation. The College is following guidelines provided by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and the Department of Health and Human Services.

BSC is not currently canceling study abroad or College-sponsored travel. None of our students are currently in countries with outbreaks.

The first case in the United States was confirmed on Jan. 21. The virus causes respiratory illness that can sometimes be severe or fatal.

BSC will provide updates to the campus community as needed. In the meantime, preventative hygiene practices can help keep you healthy year-round:

Wash your hands often and carefully with soap and water for at least 20 seconds.
Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth with unwashed hands.
Avoid close contact with people who are sick AND do not go out in public when you are sick.
Cover your cough or sneeze with a tissue.
Use disinfectant wipes to clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces.
Get a flu vaccine.

Updates and guidance about Coronavirus can be found on the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention website at www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/travelers/index.html.