Introduction

SF Monitoring Corona Virus – Currently No Cases at the College or in Alachua/Bradford Service District

SF Monitoring Corona Virus – Currently No Cases at the College or in Alachua/Bradford Service District

January 31, 2020 – Santa Fe College and the Florida College System are monitoring updates from the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) concerning the outbreak of the Coronavirus that was first detected in China. Although there are reports of thousands of infections in China, there are very few currently in the United States, and all U.S. cases are from individuals who had recently traveled to China.

The CDC considers this new virus a public health concern based on current information. However, the immediate health risk to the general U.S. public is considered low at this time and there have been no confirmed cases at Santa Fe College or in the Alachua and Bradford County service district.

U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has issued a Warning Level 3 Alert (Avoid Nonessential Travel) for all of China due to the ongoing outbreak of respiratory illness caused by a novel (new) coronavirus that can be spread from person to person.

Symptoms may be flu-like, and the CDC advises that the best way to prevent infection is to avoid being exposed to this virus. Here are everyday actions to help prevent the spread of all respiratory viruses:

  • 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.