The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and World Health Organization (WHO) continue to monitor a novel strain of coronavirus that originated in Wuhan, China.

Health and Wellness Services is proactively working with CUNY, local and state public health organizations, and Staten Island University Hospital, Wagner College, and St. John’s University to stay on top of this evolving situation. 

There are still no confirmed cases of novel coronavirus in New York State and the risk to the community remains low. Please note these important CDC recommendations:

If you have been in China within the past 14 days and feel sick with fever, cough, or difficulty breathing, you should self-isolate and seek medical care. Call ahead and tell your provider about your travel and symptoms. 

At the same time, it is also flu season. Influenza and coronavirus are both thought to spread by contact with respiratory droplets. Therefore, students, faculty, and staff can reduce their risk for these infections by:

  • Washing 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.
  • Avoiding touching your eyes, nose, and mouth with unwashed hands.
  • Avoiding close contact with people who are sick.
  • Staying home when you are sick.
  • Covering your cough or sneeze with a tissue, then throwing the tissue in the trash.
  • Cleaning and disinfecting frequently touched objects and surfaces.

While getting a flu shot will not provide protection against coronavirus, according to CDC estimates, influenza has caused at least 22 million illnesses, 210,000 hospitalizations, and 12,000 deaths this season. Influenza can last through May so, if you have not had one already, consider getting a flu shot. The vaccine is still available for students at the Campus Cneter Health Center (Building 1C, Room 112).

For up-to-date information on the coronavirus, visit the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) Website.

If you have questions or concerns, you may call the Health Center at 718.982.3045.

By Linda Conte