Dear Students, Faculty, and Staff: New York Institute of Technology administration continues to monitor, meet, and plan for the COVID-19 situation on a daily basis. To date, we have not been informed of any COVID-19 cases on campus, and no faculty member, staff, or student has tested positive for the virus. We would expect to be contacted by local public health authorities should this occur. We anticipate that the number of cases to increase as the nation's capacity to provide the test increases. Currently, this test cannot be given as a routine screening test. An individual must meet the criteria of being at high risk for contracting the disease (e.g. in contact with an actual case and having a fever/cough/shortness of breath) before the test will be approved. Simply having flu-like symptoms alone will not qualify for obtaining the COVID-19 test. This a rapidly evolving situation that changes on a daily basis, so please continue to follow the websites below to remain informed: The World Health Organization The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) The New York State Department of Health The New York City Department of Health For those who are traveling: The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention We must all remain vigilant to assure that any possible transmission is limited. Therefore, as the CDC recommends, "Employees who have symptoms of acute respiratory illness are recommended to stay home and not come to work until they are free of fever (100.4° F [37.8° C] or greater using an oral thermometer), signs of a fever, and any other symptoms for at least 24 hours, without the use of fever-reducing or other symptom-altering medicines (e.g. cough suppressants). Employees should notify their supervisor and stay home if they are sick." Given that it is likely that we will eventually have more transmission within the U.S., we should all develop better personal hygiene habits. Everyone should continue to follow general precautions to avoid becoming infected or spreading the virus by: Washing hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. Using an alcohol-based hand sanitizer if soap and water are not available. Covering your mouth and nose with a tissue or your sleeve (not your hands) when coughing or sneezing. Avoiding travelling and contact with others if you are sick. The CDC also recommends avoiding close contact with people who are sick and putting distance between yourself and other people if COVID-19 is spreading in your community. This is especially important for people who are at higher risk of getting very sick (older adults and people who have severe underlying chronic medical conditions). Where possible, follow the practice of social distancing (remaining out of congregate settings, avoiding mass gatherings, and maintaining distance of approximately six feet or two meters from others). Additional CDC guidelines for high-risk individuals can be found here. Additional Resources In addition to your local resources, the Academic Health Center is available to answer questions and assist those who are not feeling well. We can be reached at 516.686.1300. It is also understandable that members of our New York Tech community may have concerns about a new and unfamiliar illness. If you are feeling anxious or uneasy, please reach out to Counseling and Wellness Services at our campuses in Long Island (516.686.7683/7703/1300) or New York City (212.261.1773/1755) to talk or make an appointment, or stop by during the drop-in hours indicated on the Counseling and Wellness Services web page. Sincerely, Brian L. Harper M.D., M.P.H. Chief Medical Officer, NYIT College of Osteopathic Medicine