Attention:

Northern Vermont University is now part of Vermont State University! Please visit VermontState.edu for accurate information.

Coronavirus: Staying healthy at NVU: January 31, 2020

January 31, 2020

Members of the NVU Community:

U.S. and international health agencies are closely monitoring an outbreak of respiratory illness caused by a novel coronavirus (named “2019-nCoV”). It was first detected in Wuhan City, Hubei Province, China. Information about this new coronavirus, including symptoms and transmission, is evolving rapidly. Although the potential impact on NVU is impossible to predict, we must take steps to ensure that we have the most current information and to stay healthy. We would like to make you aware of resources available to help you better understand this virus and make informed decisions to keep yourself healthy.

General information:

Public health agencies are our best source for the most up-to-date facts and advice about (see links below):

  • How best to protect yourself from coronavirus and other infectious diseases;
  •  What symptoms to look for;
  • What to do if you think you may have the virus; and
  • What to do if you think you may have been exposed;

Prevention:

You can help avoid the spread of illness by following CDC guidelines for keeping healthy. No single action will provide complete protection from illness, but an approach combining the following steps can help decrease the likelihood of transmission.

  • Stay home from work or class when you are sick.
  • Avoid close contact with people who are sick.
  • Wash your hands often with soap and water, especially after you cough or sneeze. Alcohol-based hand cleaners are also effective.
  • When you cough or sneeze, cover your nose and mouth with a tissue and throw the tissue away after you use it. Alternatively, cough or sneeze into clothing — i.e. your sleeve rather than your bare hands.
  • Avoid touching your eyes, nose, or mouth. Germs and viruses spread that way.
  • Get sufficient sleep, exercise regularly, manage stress, drink plenty of fluids, and eat nutritious foods.

Recommended sites:

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention: 2019 Novel Coronavirus (2019-nCoV)

World Health Organization: Novel Coronavirus 2019

Vermont Department of Health: 2019 NOVEL CORONAVIRUS

Flu.gov: Know what to do about the flu

Jonathan Davis
Dean of Students
Northern Vermont University