Coronavirus (COVID19) University Update
President | March 2, 2020
Email sent to current students, faculty and staff
Dear Texas State Community,
As news continues to evolve about the novel coronavirus (COVID-19), it is understandable there may be concern on our campuses and in our community. I am providing this update to inform you about the precautionary measures being taken at Texas State University. I also want to stress that this is a time for all of us to demonstrate compassion, civility, and personal responsibility as we make the best decisions for our community.
Currently, no cases of COVID-19 have been reported in the Texas State community. However, it is critical to prepare as the situation evolves and more cases are identified in the United States and around the world. The President’s Cabinet, our Chief Medical Officer Emilio Carranco, M.D., and the university’s Emergency Management Committee will continue to closely monitor the situation and follow federal and state guidelines as we take appropriate precautions.
Stay Informed:
Moving forward, all official university-wide communication about COVID-19 will come via email from Dr. Carranco via the Vice President for Student Affairs (VPSA) office with the subject line: Coronavirus (COVID19) University Update. The Student Health Center has created a webpage to provide the latest COVID-19 information for our Texas State community.
Travel:
University-approved travel (including study abroad) is prohibited to areas designated Advisory Level 3 (Reconsider Travel) or 4 (Do Not Travel) by the United States Department of State, in accordance with The Texas State University System travel policy. We recommend you consult the U.S. Department of State travel advisories, especially as Spring Break is approaching, and take necessary precautions.
Students, faculty, and staff returning from Level 3 designated areas are required to self-quarantine for 14 days. For those not able to quarantine at home, the university has designated a facility as an isolation area. Those returning from Level 1 or 2 designated areas are instructed to self-monitor for 14 days. Dr. Carranco is working with all returning individuals to guide them through the self-quarantine and self-monitoring processes.
Non-official or personal travel to Level 3 and 4 restricted areas is strongly discouraged. Students, faculty, and staff who choose to visit Level 3 and 4 areas will be required to self-quarantine for 14 days upon their return. Those traveling to Level 1 or 2 designated areas are instructed to self-monitor for signs of illness. This is for the protection of everyone in our community.
The university will continue to monitor U. S. Department of State travel advisories and remain in close contact with students, faculty, and staff in study abroad and non-study abroad programs.
Protecting yourself and our community:
We all have a responsibility to maintain the health and wellbeing of our community by following recommended respiratory hygiene practices and not exposing others to contagious illnesses. If you feel sick, stay home from classes or work. Students who are ill and need to be absent from class should contact the Dean of Students office at (512) 245-2124. Faculty and staff should notify their supervisors. In addition, we urge you to follow these prevention guidelines to limit exposure to illness.
As we focus on our Texas State community, it is also important to remember everyone around the world impacted by COVID-19. Avoid stereotyping or stigmatizing any individuals or groups and follow our Bobcat values, including treating all with respect and dignity.
We will continue to monitor this situation and provide you with periodic updates. The health and wellbeing of every member of our Texas State family remains our top priority, and we will continue to take all necessary precautions.
Sincerely,
Denise M. Trauth
President