University Letter

UND's faculty and staff newsletter

University provides statement on coronavirus; new blog will give updates

As Spring Break approaches, we want you to be aware that the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has been responding to an outbreak of a respiratory disease caused by a novel (new) coronavirus which was first detected in Wuhan City, Hubei Province, China. The virus causes coronavirus disease 2019 (abbreviated “COVID-19”).

Cases internationally have significantly increased over the past month, including more cases in the United States. It’s also likely that person-to-person spread will continue to occur, including in the United States. The risk to those in the U.S. remains low.

If you plan to travel, especially out of the country, you may experience delays or restrictions, including returning to the U.S. Please refer to CDC travel advisories prior to traveling.

To date, there is no evidence of COVID-19 in North Dakota, and there are no restrictions on public gatherings. Students, faculty, and staff are reminded that part of good hygiene is staying at home when they are ill.

At UND, we continue to monitor the COVID-19 closely in partnership with the Grand Forks Public Health Department and the North Dakota Department of Health. We continue to follow UND emergency plans and the health protocols prescribed by the CDC. We will continue to assess and evaluate risk and take preventive actions as recommended by federal, state and county health authorities.

Students with concerns about their health or symptoms they are experiencing can call UND Student Health Services at 701-777-4500. Faculty and staff are encouraged to contact their primary health care provider.

Per the CDC, state and local health officials, current preventive measures remain in place. Public health officials are recommending everyone get a flu shot and follow basic prevention guidelines:

  • Wash 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.
  • Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth with unwashed hands.
  • Avoid close contact with people who are sick.
  • Stay home when you are sick.
  • Cover your cough or sneeze with a tissue, then immediately throw the tissue in the trash.
  • Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces.

The University has created a coronavirus blog, which is available at http://blogs.und.edu/coronavirus/.