Spring Break and Novel Coronavirus (COVID-19)
Posted on: February 27, 2020; Updated on: February 27, 2020
The current outbreak of the Novel Coronavirus (COVID-19) is spreading quickly worldwide. This new virus causes mild to moderate
respiratory illness and, in some cases, serious medical complications. The University
of South Carolina is working with the South Carolina Department of Health and Environment
Control (DHEC) and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) to actively
monitor the developing situation with respect to the disease and potential impacts
to our campus community.
While the vast majority of cases have occurred in mainland China, other countries
like South Korea, Italy and Japan are emerging hot spots for the virus. As the virus
continues to spread, other countries may see a surge in the number of cases. Please
check the CDC website for updates prior to finalizing your travel plans.
Before going on a spring break trip, Student Health Services recommends students take
the following steps:
- Monitor travel alerts daily. Countries you visit may decide to implement travel restrictions.
- Visit the CDC website for any travel alerts about the country you are visiting. The CDC has a Travel Health Page dedicated to travel warnings for anyone traveling.
- Read any alerts for travelers from the U.S. State Department website.
- Help reduce the spread of illness. Do not travel if you are sick. Get a flu shot.
While abroad:
- Wash your hands frequently with soap and water or use alcohol-based hand sanitizer.
- Avoid touching your eyes, nose or mouth with unwashed hands.
- Do not share food or drinks.
- Clean and disinfect shared surfaces. Wipe the airplane seat, tray and hand rests with disinfectant wipes.
- Avoid close contact with anyone with cold- or flu-like symptoms.
- Cover a cough or sneeze.
- Do not leave hotel or resort if sick. Call your health care provider for instructions.
After returning from spring break, students should monitor their health and watch
for any signs of respiratory illness. If they traveled somewhere that has an outbreak
of the Novel Coronavirus and develop a fever, cough or breathing issues, they should contact their health care
provider immediately for instructions. Students may also call 803-777-3175 or go online
to sc.edu/myhealthspace to schedule an appointment. They should indicate that they have traveled to an area
with an outbreak of the Novel Coronavirus.
Student Health Services wants all students to have a fun, educational and safe spring
break. Some experiences on alternate breaks, missions and class trips can have profound
positive effects for students. We encourage students to go and explore the world,
but at the same time we ask students to watch out for theirs and everyone’s health
and well-being.
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