March 2, 2020 – The administration at Santa Fe College, college emergency management officials and the Florida College System are continuing to monitor updates from the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) concerning the outbreak of COVID-19, also known as Coronavirus, that was first detected in China. Although there are no reported cases in the Santa Fe College service district of Alachua and Bradford counties, there are currently two cases of coronavirus in Florida – one in Hillsborough County and the other in Manatee County.
The CDC has issued a recommendation to avoid all nonessential travel to China, South Korea, Italy and Iran. They have also recommended that people who are immune-suppressed to avoid Japan because of the coronavirus.
The CDC’s reported risk assessment last week stated that the potential public health threat is high, both globally and in the U.S.
The CDC remains the most reliable source for virus updates, and the following links are regularly updated by the CDC:
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.
Santa Fe College will continue to monitor updates on the coronavirus during spring break. We encourage students, faculty and staff to utilize the sources provided above for the most accurate and current information.