(Email sent Feb. 4; updated on Feb. 12)
Dear Students,
We want to provide you with some updated information about the coronavirus. While we understand this is a topic of concern for some students, we want you to know that Santa Clara County health authorities say the risk to the general public remains low.
Based on federal guidance, the county’s Public Health Department provided these recommendations to area colleges late yesterday.
- Students or staff members who returned to the U.S. from mainland China (not Hong Kong) since Feb. 3* should stay at home and call the Public Health Department at 408.885.3980 for advice about monitoring their health for 14 days from the date of their return.
- Those who may have returned from China before Feb. 3* are not required to stay home but may wish to do so and follow the same instructions.
- Family members of those who traveled to China are not being asked to stay at home, but should watch for symptoms and avoid large gatherings.
You can read the complete letter from the Public Health Department and find additional information on De Anza's Student Health Services website.
The most current information on the virus is available from the County Public Health Department and the federal Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
The common seasonal flu is prevalent right now, as are colds, so please take precautions for your own health and that of others. The best way to protect yourself from any cold or respiratory virus is to take preventive measures:
- Wash your hands often with soap and water, especially after going to the bathroom, before eating and after blowing your nose, coughing or sneezing
- Cover your cough or sneeze – if possible, use a tissue and then throw the tissue in the trash
- Avoid close contact with others who are sick, and stay home when you are sick
We'll continue to monitor developments with the coronavirus and, if neccessary, provide further updates.
* Information marked with an asterisk (*) was updated on Feb. 12, based on new guidance
from health authorities.