February 27, 2020
UCF is continuing to monitor the 2019 Novel Coronavirus (COVID-19) and urges you to remain aware and prepared.
COVID-19 is a rapidly evolving situation with new cases emerging worldwide. While no cases have been reported at UCF or in Florida, UCF has initiated communication, coordination and planning using updated guidance from our state and federal health partners.
Now is not the time to panic but rather to prioritize personal prevention and preparedness.
Protection and Prevention
COVID-19 symptoms are generally flu-like and include fever, cough, runny nose and difficulty breathing. Symptoms are thought to appear within two to 14 days after exposure, and a person can be contagious but not symptomatic.
While the immediate risk to the American public is believed to be low at this time, everyone can take these simple steps to prevent the spread of germs:
- Wash hands often with soap and water, or use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer.
- Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth with unwashed hands.
- Cover your cough or sneeze and clean up immediately.
- Avoid contact with those who are sick, and avoid others if you are sick.
- Regularly clean and disinfect frequently touched objects.
It’s currently flu and respiratory disease season, and flu vaccines are highly recommended. Flu shots are available for free to students at Student Health Services, and employees can also receive the shot there for a cost.
Hand sanitizer stations are available across campus, and UCF is adding more to high-traffic areas on campus to encourage use during flu season.
Travel
In keeping with federal guidance regarding avoiding nonessential travel, UCF Global has added China, Hong Kong, South Korea, and Mongolia to its restricted destinations list. All study abroad programs to these countries have been canceled.
UCF Global is closely monitoring developments in the area and will continue to provide updates here: https://global.ucf.edu/international-health-and-safety/restricted-travel/.
With Spring Break approaching, UCF encourages travelers to be mindful of COVID-19’s potential impact on their plans. Destinations with large, confined groups of people pose a higher risk of transmission. Travelers should proceed with caution, thoroughly research their destination, and consult with their doctors and UCF regarding any concerns.
Travel updates from the CDC are available here: https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/travelers/index.html.
UCF Resources
The CDC is sharing comprehensive information about Coronavirus here: https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/index.html
At UCF, anyone with additional questions may call UCF Student Health Services at 407-823-2509. More information is being shared here: https://www.ucf.edu/coronavirus/.
Students experiencing distress related to the outbreak can reach Counseling and Psychological Services 24/7 by calling 407-823-2811.
Outbreaks such as COVID-19 evolve quickly. In this period of uncertainty, we know that taking precautions and prioritizing safety are always smart decisions.