As the University of Rhode Island continues to monitor the coronavirus (now called COVID-19) outbreak, it wants the campus community to know that there are no reported cases at URI or in Rhode Island. University Health Services continues to work with the Rhode Island Department of Health on the issue and is paying close attention to updates from the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. CDC says the virus is NOT currently spreading in the United States, although cases have been reported in seven states.The state Department of Health has issued a fact sheet with additional details about the illness.

At this time, the CDC does not recommend use of face masks among the general public. While there has been limited person-to-person spread among close contacts in the United States, the virus is not spreading widely in the community. The CDC’s position is that if you are not sick, you should not wear a face mask. The masks should be reserved for those who are sick, so they can prevent further spread of the virus.

A person’s risk for COVID-19 (novel coronavirus) is closely tied to their recent travel history, and the travel histories of their immediate contacts—specifically, travel to mainland China or close contact with a person confirmed to have COVID-19. One of the most important messages for us to remember is that someone’s nationality alone is not a risk factor for coronavirus.

The continuing news coverage about COVID-19 has probably heightened concerns throughout our community, but we want to assure you that we are taking all necessary steps with our partners to prevent the spread of the illness.

In this time of uncertainty and fear, we remind everyone at URI that this is a community that supports and cares for each other. We appeal to everyone to be understanding and sensitive to the various circumstances faced by our University family.

Flu remains widespread

Our community should also remember that seasonal influenza is widespread on campus, in the state and around the country. The preventive measures for COVID-19, flu and flu-like symptoms are the same.

To help keep yourself and your family 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.
• 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.
• If you have not already done so, get your annual flu shot! A flu shot is the easiest and most effective way to help prevent the flu.

A reminder for faculty

We expect that faculty have students who are experiencing flu and other flu-like illnesses.  We request you give them every consideration for an excused absence, as requiring them to attend class will likely contribute to increased spread of illness in our community. Health Services does not provide medical excuses for missed classes except in very limited cases when the student will be unable to attend multiple classes over a longer duration of time. We also urge administrators and staff who employ students in their officers to give them the same consideration.

Many viral illnesses need to run their course. Those with such illnesses should drink plenty of liquids and get plenty of rest. Antibiotics fight bacterial infections and will not cure illnesses caused by a virus.

Health Services hours

Health Services remains open weekdays from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. and weekends from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. throughout the spring term for medical care and advice. However, many individuals do not need to be seen and are able to manage their illness by self-isolating, staying hydrated and getting plenty of rest. Faculty and staff should refer students to our office at 401.874-2246 to speak with a triage nurse if they have any questions regarding their illness.