Information about Coronavirus

Dear Rider Community,

In recent days, you have likely heard that the CDC is closely monitoring an outbreak of a respiratory illness caused by a novel (new) coronavirus that was first detected in December 2019 in Wuhan, China. While there have been thousands of cases reported in China since the outbreak occurred, the United States currently only has five confirmed cases in four states. There are no confirmed cases in New Jersey or at Rider University at this time. We will continue to monitor the CDC and local public health departments as more information is available.

If you are a student who has recently traveled to Wuhan, China, or has possibly come in contact with an infected individual (in the last 14 days) AND you are experiencing the following symptoms, please contact Student Health Services at 609-896-5060. It is important to call ahead to notify the health center of your symptoms and recent travel.

• Fever
• Cough
• Shortness of breath

Similarly, if you are a faculty or staff member with these symptoms who has traveled within the last 14 days to Wuhan, China, or come in contact with a possibly infected individual, you should seek medical attention through your primary care physician. Please remember to call ahead to your healthcare provider's office to notify them of your recent travel and symptoms.

Some simple preventative measures to avoid transmission of viruses (i.e. coronavirus, flu, etc.) include:

• Wash your hands often for 20 seconds or more with soapy water
• Avoid close contact with people who are sick
• Stay home when you are sick
• Cover your mouth and nose when you cough and sneeze (use a tissue or elbow)
• Avoid touching your eyes, nose or mouth
• Practice other good health habits (get plenty of sleep, drink plenty of water, eat nutritious food and manage your stress)

If you are planning travel abroad, the Center for International Education (CIE) is available for consultation. CIE is located in Bart Luedeke Center 124 and can be reached at 609-896-7717.

For more information about the 2019 Novel Coronavirus, please visit cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-nCoV/summary.html.

Sincerely,

Cindy Threatt
Associate Vice President for Student Affairs and Dean of Students

Elizabeth Luciano
Director of Student Health Services