Updated Statement about Coronavirus (COVID-19)

For Immediate Release
Mar. 4, 2020

Birmingham-Southern College is closely monitoring the outbreak of the novel coronavirus (COVID-19), first identified in Wuhan, China, in December. As of March 2, 2020, there are no reported cases in Alabama, however the virus is likely to spread in the United States, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).

BSC is following guidelines provided by the CDC and the Department of Health and Human Services, and the College is in contact with local and state health departments who are also providing guidance.

The virus causes respiratory illness that often presents with mild symptoms, but can sometimes be severe or fatal.

Interim Travel Policy

College-sponsored travel has been suspended to destinations designated CDC Alert Level 2 and Warning Level 3 for COVID-19. The College is monitoring conditions abroad where we currently have students and working with those students to determine the best course of action.

Any travel policy is subject to change as the situation develops.

Students with questions about college-related overseas travel should contact Anne Ledvina, associate director of International Programs, at (205)226-7722 or [email protected].

Register Your Travel Plans
Students, faculty, and staff must report any college-related overseas travel plans during spring and summer term through the following form: https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/BSCTravelForm.

While not required, if willing, faculty, staff, and students taking personal trips to impacted countries are asked to also fill out the travel form. Personal travel is subject to U.S. government regulations and advisories, and anyone traveling overseas may be subject to self-isolation requirements when they return. Consult CDC Travel Notices before departing. The situation is changing rapidly, so the CDC will likely add more countries to the list.

Tips for Staying Healthy

Preventative hygiene practices can help keep you healthy year-round:

Wash your hands often and carefully with soap and water for at least 20 seconds.

Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth with unwashed hands.

Avoid close contact with people who are sick AND do not go out in public when you are sick.

Cover your cough or sneeze with a tissue.

Use disinfectant wipes to clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces.

Get a flu vaccine.

If you experience flu-like symptoms, seek medical attention and avoid public spaces. Students should call BSC Student Health Services at (205) 226-4717.

The Office of Health Services is open 8:15 a.m.-4:45 p.m. Monday–Friday. The office is closed noon–1 p.m. daily.

BSC is committed to maintaining the health and safety of our campus community. We will continue to monitor the situation and provide updates as needed.

Resources

Find updates and guidance about Coronavirus on the following websites:

Alabama Department of Public Health

CDC Travel Health Notices

CDC Travel Information for COVID-19