Virginia State University Responds to the Coronavirus Outbreak

Virginia State University (VSU) is proactively responding to the coronavirus, COVID-19. The VSU Emergency Management Team met today as a proactive measure to prepare an emergency operational plan.
Presently, there are no confirmed cases of coronavirus in Virginia. However, the University is working with public health officials to be as prepared as possible to protect the health of the VSU community. We continue to follow the guidance from the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) to align our plans with the most current recommendations from experts. This includes encouraging everyone to monitor their own health, practice good hygiene and stay home if feeling sick.

As a precautionary measure, we are utilizing the same measure of preparations that we would for any other potential occurrence that would disrupt normal campus operations. This includes working with campus leadership and regional public health partners to take steps that can minimize disruptions to student learning as we prioritize the health and safety of our students, faculty and staff. Even if these measures are not ultimately needed, ensuring that we are prepared for disruptions now will serve us well in the future.

Although the risk in Virginia for a coronavirus epidemic appears low, officials say you can still take precautions to prevent the spread of this potentially deadly virus.

Health officials suggest these preventive measures:

  • Wash your hands often with soap and warm water for at least 20 seconds.
  • Cover your mouth when coughing and sneezing.                                                       
  • Avoid touching your face.                                                                              
  • Avoid contact with people who are sick.                                                                         
  • Stay at home if you are sick.

Symptoms of coronavirus are known to appear 2-14 days after being exposed to the virus and are similar to flu-like symptoms. If you display any signs of illness, please see a health care provider.
Accurate and reliable information about coronavirus can be found on the VDH website. At VSU, we will continue to monitor this health crisis and provide you with updates through University-wide email messages when warranted.