URI Health Services update to URI students studying abroad in China

January 24, 2020

Given the news about the recent coronavirus outbreak in Wuhan City, Hubei Province of China, we wanted to reach out to you to advise that Health Services, the International Office and the University at large are closely monitoring the situation and are here to assist you if you need help.

If you have recently traveled to or from Wuhan City, please make sure you continue to monitor your health closely for the next 14 days. If you become ill, please seek medical services. Symptoms of the coronavirus are similar to influenza. Symptoms include: runny nose, headache, cough, sore throat, fever, a general feeling of being unwell. Currently, there is no vaccination available for coronavirus and treatment consists of such things as cough medicine, fever reducing medication, hydration, etc. to alleviate symptoms.

As the situation evolves, we understand that you and your family/friends may have concerns. If you need support, please reach out to any of the following contacts who remain available to assist you.

To help keep yourself healthy, the CDC recommends the following:

  • Wash your hands often with soap and warm water for at least 20 seconds. If soap and warm water are not available, use an alcohol-based hand gel.
  • Sneeze and cough into your elbow or cover your mouth and nose with a tissue.
  • Avoid close contact with people who are sick. If you are sick, stay home from work, school and notify your employers/faculty members.
  • Do not share utensils, water bottles, or other personal items. Many germs that cause viral illness are spread through saliva.
  • Wipe down common items like phones, keyboards, door knobs, and railings with a disinfectant.