What is Novel Coronavirus (COVID-19)?
COVID-19 is a newly identified coronavirus that is causing an outbreak of pneumonia
illness. It was first identified in December 2019 in the city of Wuhan, Hubei Province,
China.
Since then, cases have been identified in multiple other countries including the US.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), human coronaviruses
are common throughout the world and usually cause mild to moderate illness in people.
This new virus is a public health concern because:
- It is newly identified, so much is still unknown about it.
- Two other human coronaviruses, MERS-CoV and SARS-CoV, have caused severe illness.
Coping with COVID-19 Anxiety
Students may contact the Personal Counseling Center via e-mail at [email protected]
or telephone (231) 591-5968. Additionally, Listening Ear is a 24/7 Mental Health Crisis Hotline (989-772-2918) that provides immediate support,
information and referrals for our students.
All members of the University community may use TAO, a secure, private online library of interactive and engaging programs to help overcome
anxiety, depression and other common mental health concerns. If you are dealing with
anxiety or fear issues, or know of someone who is, these resources are available for
assistance.
What are the symptoms?
Symptoms may be flu-like, ranging from mild to serious, and include:
- Fever
- Cough
- Difficulty breathing
Person-to-person spread is occurring, although it's unclear exactly how it is transmitted
and how easily the virus spreads between people.
If you have symptoms of fever, cough, and/or difficulty breathing and in the last
14 days you should:
- Seek medical care right away. Before you go to a doctor's office or emergency department,
call first and tell them about your recent travel and your symptoms.
- Ferris students may call Birkam Health Center at (231) 591-2614.
- Others should first call their health care provider or call the District Health Department
#10 at (231) 592-0130.
- Avoid contact with others.
- Do not travel while sick. Please do not use public transportation or arrive unannounced
at the Birkam Health Center. Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue or your sleeve
(not your hands) when coughing or sneezing.
- Wash hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. Use an alcohol-based
hand sanitizer if soap and water are not available.
What is the treatment?
Currently, there is no specific antiviral treatment recommended for COVID-19 infection.
People infected with COVID-19 should receive supportive care to help relieve symptoms.
(source: CDC)
Is there a vaccine?
Yes, a vaccine is now available. Visit the State of Michigan's Coronavirus website for more information on the vaccine.
Where are the cases of COVID-19?
On March 10, state officials announced the first two confirmed cases of coronavirus
in Michigan. New cases continue to be identified in the United States, including Michigan.
The CDC continues to indicate that the number of cases reported in the United States
will increase, as testing capability is increased. Ferris is monitoring this information
closely.
CDC site for cases in the US: https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/cases-in-us.html.
Michigan information from state health officials can be found at: https://www.michigan.gov/coronavirus/.
What is Social Distancing?
Social distancing means:
- Avoid public places where close contact with others might occur – this includes shopping
centers, movie theaters, stadiums, workplaces, schools and classrooms.
- Avoid public transportation (e.g., bus, subway, taxi, ride share).
- Maintain distance (approximately 6 feet or 2 meters) from others.
How do I prevent the Coronavirus?
There is no vaccine to prevent this virus, 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:
- Wear a mask/face covering when in public
- 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.
How do I self-isolate and self-monitor?
To self-isolate, you should:
- Stay home. Do not go to work, school or public areas.
- Separate yourself from other people in your home. Avoid visitors to your home.
- Self-monitor for fever by checking temperature at least twice a day. Contact your
healthcare provider if you develop a fever or respiratory symptoms.
- If you have symptoms, where a facemask when you are around other people.
- When seeking medical care, call ahead and tell them about your symptoms before heading
to the doctor's office or the emergency room.
- Do not use public transport like buses or taxis.
- Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds.
- Cover your cough or sneeze with a tissue, and immediately throw the tissue in the
trash and clean hands with sanitizer.
- Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth.
- Clean and disinfect frequently used objects and surfaces.
The CDC offers the following additional guidance on how to self-isolate: https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/about/steps-when-sick.html