Update from President O’Shea:

“The Centers for Disease Control (CDC) has been issuing advisories on COVID-19 (the new coronavirus). As of this morning, there were 43 confirmed and suspected cases of the virus in the United States. Two are in Florida – one in Manatee County and another in Hillsborough county.  Neither is related to New College.

At this stage, the best advice is to follow general flu precaution guidelines. If you’re a student who is feeling sick, please be respectful of your classmates and remain in your room as much as possible. If you’re experiencing cough, fever, and shortness of breath, please go to the Health Center. If you are an employee who is feeling sick, please be respectful of your colleagues and students and consider staying home after consultation with your supervisor. If you’re experiencing cough, fever, and shortness of breath, please see your healthcare provider.

Earlier this morning, the Governor’s office issued an executive order directing the State Surgeon General to declare a public health emergency in the state of Florida, and to follow CDC guidelines to control the spread of COVID-19 and to educate the public on prevention. In accordance with this executive order, the State University System Board of Governors has directed all faculty, staff, and students returning from travel to China, Iran, Italy, Japan, South Korea to self-quarantine for fourteen days and not return to campus for fourteen days after their return. We have one student affected by this directive and we are, of course, complying with it.

College officials met with the Sarasota County Emergency Management team this morning and we will continue to be active participants in our response to this situation. Thank you for your continued vigilance.”