The coronavirus outbreak, also known as novel coronavirus syndrome or Covid-19, is a significant public health concern. While there have not been any reported cases in Michigan, Wayne State University is carefully monitoring the situation and will take any necessary steps to protect our campus community. A committee of campus experts has met and is following this situation closely. This committee is composed of infectious disease physicians from the School of Medicine, staff from the provost’s office, Campus Health Center professionals, communication staff and others.

In keeping with the recommendations from both the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the U.S. government, all WSU-related travel to China will be restricted and personal travel to China discouraged. Students, faculty and staff who have returned from China in the last 14 days should follow the recommendations listed on the CDC website.

If you have one or more coronavirus symptoms, please see your primary health care provider, visit a local urgent care center, or call the Campus Health Center at 313-577-5041 to make an appointment.

Here are some potential scenarios and recommended actions:

1) Faculty, staff and students who have been in China in the last 14 days or have come into contact with a person known to have the coronavirus and have symptoms of respiratory illness — including fever, cough or difficulty breathing — should see their primary care health provider for an evaluation. Your physician may isolate you in a private room and ask you to wear a facemask and other appropriate protective equipment. The appropriate clinical assessment may be conducted in collaboration with state and local health departments.

2) If you have not been to China and have no symptoms but are just generally concerned about the coronavirus, you may contact the Campus Health Center and ask to speak with a nurse practitioner, the outreach nurse or nursing administration.

3) If you live in campus housing with someone who has traveled to an affected area and are concerned about remaining in the residence, please contact Kelly Thacker, associate director of university housing, at 313-577-2116 to explore alternative temporary housing.

Although there is, understandably, a high level of concern and much misinformation about the novel coronavirus syndrome, we do not believe there is any immediate threat to our campus community. We will continue to monitor the situation closely and will post updates on new developments to keep the campus community informed. We encourage good health hygiene to limit the impact of all infectious diseases. Cover your mouth when you cough or sneeze, wash your hands frequently, and stay home if you are sick.

For more information about the novel coronavirus syndrome, visit cdc.gov/coronavirus/index.html.