Dear USF community,
The University of South Florida continues to closely monitor the evolving global coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak. The health and safety of our students, faculty and staff is our highest priority as university leaders work closely with local, state and federal agencies to share the most updated information and coordinate necessary responses.
Continue to check this web page for the most up-to-date information.
*NEW INFORMATION AS OF MONDAY, MARCH 2*
- There have now been two confirmed cases of coronavirus in Florida. There is no evidence to suggest that either of these cases has any connection to the USF community at this time. The Governor’s Office has now declared a State of Emergency for Florida, which provides additional guidance for state healthcare professionals.
- As of this date, the CDC has designated several countries as Risk Level 3. USF prohibits student, faculty and staff travel to these destinations. CDC risk assessments may change from day to day; check back frequently.
- The Florida Board of Governors has asked universities to cancel all university-sponsored travel to China, Iran, Italy, Japan and South Korea. Per the same communication, all faculty, employees and students who have traveled to these countries are being asked to return home and self-quarantine away from campus for 14 days.
- Recognizing that our USF community is looking forward to spring break, please be aware that the CDC is cautioning that individuals traveling abroad “may face unpredictable circumstances, travel restrictions, challenges returning home, or accessing health care while abroad.” USF leadership will release more detailed guidance regarding spring break Education Abroad programming in the coming days.
PREVENTION AND RESOURCES
Protect yourself and your community from COVID-19. Wash your hands frequently with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, especially after going to the bathroom, before eating, and after blowing your nose, coughing or sneezing. If soap and water are not available, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol. Avoid close contact with people who are sick, and stay home when you are sick.
Keep in mind that this is the cold and flu season, so you should not assume you have the coronavirus even if you have similar symptoms. If you are sick, stay home and make an appointment to see your doctor. Students should contact the following to make an appointment to see our health professionals:
- Tampa: Student Health Services (SHS100) at 813-974-2331
- St. Petersburg: Wellness Center (SLC 2200) at 727-873-4422
- Sarasota-Manatee: Counseling and Wellness Center (5805 Bay Shore Rd.) at 941-487-4254
- If you are returning from a country with coronavirus and you are requested to maintain 14 days of self-isolation, please contact Dr. Joseph Puccio, Executive Director of Student Health Services, at 813-974-0444.
- If you are severely ill and cannot get to a doctor, call 911 or go to an emergency department at a local hospital.
For reliable, up-to-date information, visit:
University leadership, including experts from USF Health, USF World, USF Emergency Management and state and local government partners, are working closely to monitor the situation, coordinate resources, and ensure continuity of academic and business operations as necessary.
We will continue to provide frequent updates. Check www.usf.edu/coronavirus for additional information.
Sincerely,
Steven C. Currall
President and Professor