The following message regarding the coronavirus was delivered to students, parents, faculty, and staff on Feb. 28:

Dear Students, Parents, Faculty, and Staff,

Over the last few weeks, you have likely heard about the coronavirus that originated in Wuhan, China. We are writing to you today to update you on news related to the virus and to share precautions the College is taking as we continuously monitor the situation.

Outbreaks of new viruses are always a public health concern, and the College’s main priority is always the safety of everyone on campus. Please be assured that the current threat to the Presbyterian College community, and to the United States, is considered low.

As of today, the “United States has 60 known cases of the infection, with 59 among people who traveled to Asia or were close contacts of people who went there. The vast majority, 42, picked up the virus while quarantined on the Diamond Princess cruise ship off Japan,” according to The Washington Post.

There have been no reported deaths as a result of the coronavirus in the U.S.

College officials are in constant communication with local health providers and with the South Carolina Department of Health and Environmental Control. Protocol is in place to treat anyone who may be affected by the coronavirus. It is important to note that there are no confirmed cases of the coronavirus on campus, in the local community or in the state of South Carolina.

The College will implement an action plan if there are any suspected cases of the coronavirus on campus or in the local community. We also have a plan in place if any cases of the coronavirus on campus or in the local community are confirmed. We will share the details of the plans if either of these situations arises.

According to the Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), you can help stop the coronavirus by knowing the signs and symptoms:

• Fever
• Cough
• Shortness of breath

The CDC also advises that you seek medical advice if you have traveled to China in the past 14 days and feel sick. Call ahead before you go to a doctor’s office or emergency room. Tell them about your recent travel and your symptoms.

The CDC recommends keeping yourself and others healthy by:

• Washing your hands often 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
• Avoiding touching your eyes, nose, and mouth with unwashed hands
• Staying home when you are sick
• Covering your cough or sneezing with a tissue, then throwing the tissue in the trash

College officials continue to monitor this public health concern. We will update you regarding the coronavirus as we receive new information.

If you want to learn more about the political, economic and public health impact of the novel coronavirus outbreak, please watch this video of a recent panel discussion held on campus.

Thank you,
PC Leadership Team