1/31/2020 - General Updates
As of January 31, 2020, there continues to be no identified risk of COVID-19 on the Caltech campus.
The World Health Organization (WHO) has declared the 2019 novel Coronavirus outbreak (renamed COVID-19 on February 11, 2020) to be Public Health Emergency of International Concern (PHEIC). The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention advises against travel to China.
The situation continues to change quickly and as of today, there are about 10,000 cases and 200 fatalities. There are 6 confirmed cases in the United States with one person to person transmission between close contacts.
The risk to the general population continues to be low. There are no restrictions for people who are not ill. Please consult public health departments at local, state, national and international levels for accurate information and official recommendations.
The actions individuals persons can take are:
- Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. Use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer that contains at least 60% alcohol if soap and water are not available.
- 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.
If you are ill with respiratory symptoms such as fever, cough or difficulty breathing, and have traveled recently, call Student Wellness Services at (626) 395-6393 and report your situation along with leaving a contact phone number. Stay in your room, wear a mask if you leave your room but avoid public settings. We will call you back and give you instructions.
Additionally, American Airlines and Delta Airlines have announced that they will be temporarily suspending flights to China. Please visit their official newsrooms for more information:
American Airlines - http://news.aa.com/news/news-details/2020/American-Airlines-Update-on-China-Flights-OPS-DIS/default.aspx
Delta Airlines - https://news.delta.com/delta-temporarily-suspend-all-us-china-flying