Coronavirus Update

Dear members of the Kenyon College community,

We have been following the reports of the coronavirus closely and tracking the guidance of global health authorities as they seek to contain it. While the number of cases reported in the U.S. remains extremely low — 11 to date — several agencies have issued new advisories out of an abundance of caution. The World Health Organization (WHO) has declared the novel coronavirus outbreak a Public Health Emergency of International Concern and both the U.S. State Department and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) have raised their travel advisories for China to their highest levels.

Kenyon does not have any College-sponsored travel to China planned for the spring semester, nor does it have students currently studying abroad there. Marne Ausec, director of the center for global engagement, is available to consult with individuals whose personal travel plans may be affected by the advisories. 

Currently, influenza poses a greater risk to our community than the coronavirus. The same practices are effective for preventing both: wash your hands thoroughly; avoid touching your eyes, nose or mouth with unwashed hands; sneeze or cough into a tissue or your elbow; sanitize objects and surfaces that are frequently touched; and stay home when feeling ill. If you are experiencing symptoms of respiratory illness — fever, cough, difficulty breathing — please contact your primary care physician or the Cox Health and Counseling Center at 740-427-5525.

While we encourage everyone to take seriously the recommendations issued by the global health authorities, we also ask that you be mindful that the reports from across the globe may hit especially close to home for some members of our community. Those with family and friends in China may be experiencing heightened anxiety and uncertainty, as well as feeling unjustly scrutinized. We appreciate everyone in the Kenyon community extending their kindness and support, especially to our students.

If you have health-related questions, please contact Chris Smith, director of health and counseling services; for questions about international travel, please reach out to Marne Ausec, director, Center for Global Engagement.

Sincerely,

Marne Ausec, director, Center for Global Engagement
Meredith Harper Bonham, vice president for student affairs
Joe Klesner, provost
Chris Smith, director of health and counseling services

> Read more about coronavirus preparedness at Kenyon

> View all campus updates related to COVID-19