UC Santa Cruz health officials are closely monitoring the coronavirus and, in coordination with county officials, preparing to manage any outbreaks in our campus community.
To date, there have not been any reported cases in Santa Cruz County or in the Bay Area. There have been two confirmed cases in Southern California, and four other cases in Washington, Arizona, and Illinois.
UC Santa Cruz has an information page online at ucsc.edu/coronavirus that will be updated regularly with new information.
Coronavirus is group of viruses that can cause respiratory illnesses, including the common cold. According to the California Department of Public Health, the newest strain of coronavirus started in Wuhan, China.
State officials report that the immediate health risk from the coronavirus to the general public is low. Federal officials recommend that people avoid non-essential travel to China.
As with any virus, especially during the flu season, the California Department of Public Health reminds people to:
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Wash hands with soap and water.
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Avoid touching eyes, nose or mouth with unwashed hands.
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Avoid close contact with people who are sick are all ways to reduce the risk of infection with a number of different viruses.
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Stay away from work, school or other people to avoid spreading illnesses.
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Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces (cell phone, keyboard).
The potential threat of a novel virus can be frightening and overwhelming, with varying accounts and messages on social media and the internet.
Taking the outlined precautionary measures are the appropriate preventative measures in the event of any communicable disease. As a university, we stand to support, include, and protect our diverse and international community.
It is important to remember that isolating or assuming a certain racial group is carrying the disease is counterproductive and can cause unfounded suffering.
Campus community members who are experiencing discrimination or harassment on the basis of their nationality or race are encouraged to report incidents.
Additional information can be found at:
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Coronavirus frequently asked questions, from Santa Cruz County Health Services Agency
