The Monday Message – Coronavirus & College Travel

This weekend, Northern Virginia confirmed its first two cases of COVID-19 (Coronavirus). At this point, we are being advised that there is a low likelihood of spread of the virus. We remain vigilant in our planning and preparedness, and ask you to check both the Daily Flyer and NOVA’s Coronavirus website for updates.

A number of states and municipalities have declared states of emergency due to COVID-19, and some communities have established quarantines or called upon individuals to engage in self-isolation. I recognize that a number of you have conferences or other travel planned, in some cases to these areas of the country. NOVA is adopting the following travel guidance for our students and employees (based upon that offered by UVA to its college community):

We urge faculty, staff, and students who have personal or professional plans to travel either internationally or to affected areas in the U.S. to reconsider this travel. If you do travel, we ask you to plan for the possibility of travel delays, future quarantines, or prolonged self-isolation when returning to the NOVA and Northern Virginia communities.

On Thursday, the US Dept of Education issued a Federal Student Aid COVID-19 guidance memo that will assist NOVA in planning for how to serve students should it become necessary to close our college for a period of time.

Again, the most effective response to this and every virus is preventative. By now you’ve heard the steps thousands of times, but as a reminder: wash your hands for at least 20 seconds; avoid touching your face; stop shaking hands; cough/sneeze into a tissue or the crook of your arm; and stay home if you feel ill.

I know that the current situation can create anxiety and concern. As always, if you have questions, please reach out to College Safety Manager David Cook (OEM@nvcc.edu) or to me.

All the best,

Anne