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The following resources can help you stay informed on the latest updates regarding coronavirus
MSU Frequently Asked Questions on Coronavirus
Mississippi State Department of Health—Coronavirus Summary
Johns Hopkins University Coronavirus (COVID-19) Dashboard
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention—Coronavirus Summary
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention—Coronavirus Fact Sheet
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention—What the public should do
U.S. Department of State—Travel Advisory
CORONAVIRUS (COVID-19) FAQs
Has there been a confirmed case of coronavirus at MSU or in Oktibbeha County and, if not, how will I find out if there is a case at the university or in the local area?
There are no confirmed cases in Mississippi, at MSU or in Starkville. If there is a confirmed case at MSU or in Oktibbeha County, state and county health officials will provide an initial notice and MSU will follow their lead in communicating to students, faculty and staff.
How is Mississippi State preparing for the potential spread of coronavirus?
Campus leaders, including President Mark Keenum and Health Services Executive Director Cliff Story, local emergency management personnel and others are continually monitoring any developments with coronavirus and any circumstances in which it could affect the university population. While there are currently no known cases in Mississippi, state emergency management and public health agencies also are constantly examining updates on the virus’s spread in conjunction with the U.S. Centers for Disease Control. The regular contact between MSU’s health and emergency preparedness divisions with local, state, regional and national agencies ensures that campus leaders have the latest information, which they will articulate to the university community.
If the university should determine a case of coronavirus on campus, what can be done?
We want to reassure our community that the university is proactively working to protect persons on our campus, and our administration, emergency and health personnel have trained and drilled on response to such situations. The university’s response to a suspected or confirmed case of coronavirus will be handled in coordination with state and federal partners and their recommended best practices.
What are the best preventative measures?
At this time, the campus community is encouraged to continue daily life as normal and to take the same precautions they would take to avoid any other respiratory illnesses, such as the flu.
While there is no current vaccine to prevent this virus, anyone can take actions to help prevent the spread of the virus such as:
- Washing hands regularly with soap for at least 20 seconds or using an alcohol-based hand sanitizer
- Covering your cough or sneeze with a tissue and then disposing of the tissue in the trash
- Staying home if sick
- Avoiding touching your eyes, nose and mouth with unwashed hands
- Avoiding close contact with people you know are sick
- Cleaning and disinfecting frequently touched objects and surfaces
Should I stock up on surgical masks to prevent myself from contracting the virus?
There is no need to wear a surgical mask when out in public unless you are in a healthcare facility or are, for some reason, in close contact with people who may have the virus. In fact, most masks do not effectively filter small particles from the air. Hand washing and avoiding touching your face are the best way to lower your risk of infection.
If I suspect I’ve been exposed to or have symptoms of the virus, what should I do?
Call the Longest Student Health Center at 662-325-7539 or your primary medical provider. You should call prior to going to the medical office or emergency room so medical personnel can get information on your illness and plan for your visit to their clinic or hospital.
If I have a doctor’s appointment, should I worry about getting infected with the virus at a hospital or clinic?
Don’t avoid getting the medical care you need because of concerns about the coronavirus. All health centers, clinics and hospitals have protocols in place for keeping patients, healthcare workers and visitors safe. If you begin to or are experiencing flu-like symptoms, call the Longest Student Health Center at 662-325-7539 or your primary medical provider first to be advised on your next steps.
Does the university have any travel restrictions in place for students and employees?
At present, MSU is not approving travel to countries that have been issued Level 3 status by the CDC, including China and South Korea. MSU is discouraging travel to Level 2 status countries, which now include Japan, Italy and Iran. Students and employees are asked to reconsider all non-essential international travel. MSU leaders are monitoring international & domestic impacts and may adjust travel recommendations accordingly.
I have travel plans for Spring Break, but should I cancel my trip?
Your health and safety are of the utmost importance to us. However, your personal travel plans are your decision. If you are planning to travel internationally during spring break, you can find current information about the risks from the U.S. Department of State and the CDC. Be informed before you finalize your travel plans. The CDC warns against travel to China, Iran, Italy, South Korea or Japan, and other countries could be added to the list at any time.
Travelers should think about the fact that, without prior notice, they could be quarantined or experience sudden and serious travel disruptions. In this uncertain climate, returning to the U.S. from some destinations could prove difficult.
Currently, there are no limitations to domestic travel, but be aware of any areas of the country that are more affected than others when making your travel plans.