PUBLIC HEALTH UPDATE
From: Sarah Van Orman, Chief Health Officer, USC Student Health | Keck Medicine of USC
Date: March 9, 2020
Re: L.A. County Dept. of Public Health Announces First Possible Community Transmission of COVID-19 in Los Angeles County (No Cases at USC)
Today, the Los Angeles County Department of Public Health announced the first possible case of community transmission. There are no cases at USC; however, it is necessary to plan for appropriate contingencies in the event that public health measures move to heightened social distancing measures.
USC is evaluating our current situation and discussing options to slow potential transmission through the community of Los Angeles.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), recently released information that individuals with who are older and/or have severe chronic medical conditions — such as heart, lung or kidney disease — appear to be at higher risk for more serious COVID-19 illness. They are advising this higher risk population to take heightened precautions: stay home, limit close contact (6 feet, 2 meters) in public places, and avoid crowds. When going to public places, people in this risk category should distance themselves from others who are sick, limit close contact with others, and wash their hands frequently.
Travel Cautions: High Risk
International travel carries risk of transmission between communities; we strongly recommend members of the USC community to postpone nonessential travel at this time. Approach domestic travel plans prudently; be advised that the U.S. Department of State has advised all U.S. citizens not to embark on cruise travel at this time.
If you travel internationally, be prepared for mandatory health screenings, flight cancellations, or isolation measures — including the possibility of a required 14-day self-isolation.
Self-Isolation and Protecting Others
For individuals who meet screening criteria risk for potential COVID-19 transmission — international travelers, individuals with cold/flu-like symptoms — self-isolation may be required to keep the community safe. If your medical provider advises you to self-isolate, please follow this guidance. The following are required procedures: staying in a separate room away from others, with a separate washroom if possible; minimal contact with essential care service providers such as health care workers and food delivery workers; no visitors, excursions outside the home, attending activities, going to work, or coming to the USC campus and facilities.
Students, faculty, or staff who have been notified by public health authorities about a potential exposure to COVID-19 must follow appropriate 14-day self-isolation instructions; please let the university about your status by calling the hotline: 213-740-6291.
Your adherence to these measures is deeply appreciated by all USC leadership. We are a community that supports one another through difficult circumstances and will get through these unusual times through mutual support, patience, and cooperation with our local public health agencies.