Community Health Advisory: Coronavirus

01.24.2020

The Coronavirus Outbreak 

Student Health Services (SHS) is closely following reports from the World Health Organization and the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) concerning the Coronavirus (named “2019-nCoV”) that was first detected in Wuhan, Hubei Province, China, and which continues to expand. The virus has spread to several countries, including the United States, and the number of those affected is expected to grow.

While the CDC considers this is a very serious public health threat, based on current information, the immediate health risk from 2019-nCoV to the general American public is considered low at this time. Nevertheless, SHS remains vigilant and in close contact with our local Los Angeles County Public Health Department. If at any time, we are notified that our campus community may be at greater risk for an outbreak of the 2019-nCOV, we will alert the campus and take all necessary measures to protect our community as directed by the public health experts.

Signs and symptoms of this illness include fever, cough, and difficulty breathing. SHS does not feel the coronavirus at this time presents a heightened risk to the LMU campus community and wishes to remind you that this is the season for respiratory illnesses including the seasonal flu, which may cause fever and cough.

Persons at the greatest risk for contracting the virus are those who have traveled from affected areas in the past 14 days. These persons should contact their health care provider if they are experiencing symptoms of the illness. LMU students who are experiencing these symptoms and have traveled to or from affected areas, should self-isolate and call SHS (310.338.2881) for further instructions before entering the Health Center. Do not attend classes or eat in the dining halls. Concerned LMU staff and faculty should call your health care provider ASAP.

Coronaviruses are a large family of viruses. There are several known coronaviruses that may affect people and usually only cause mild respiratory disease, such as the common cold; however, the virus is evolving and may be transferred from person to person causing more serious illness, such as pneumonia.

Remember the most important ways to avoid illness:

• Get a flu shot;
• 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 throw the tissue in the trash;
• Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces;

Should you experience any symptoms, please contact your health care provider or call SHS at 310.338.2881. For more information on coronavirus, visit the  CDC website.

To book your flu shot, call SHS at 310-338-2881 or book an appointment online through the MyHealth Portal through MyLMU.