The University of Asia and the Pacific is currently taking precautionary measures to protect the UA&P community from the spread of the 2019 Novel Coronavirus (2019-nCoV). As previously announced, the University has implemented non-contact infrared thermal scanning at all campus entrances starting February 2. The University will also be making hand sanitizers available in several areas around the campus.
As of February 7, the Department of Health (DOH) has reported three confirmed cases of 2019-nCoV and one death in the Philippines while the World Health Organization (WHO) has confirmed 24,554 cases in 24 countries. Following the advisory from DOH, UA&P strongly recommends that all students and employees who have recently traveled to the affected areas to quarantine themselves for 14 days to rule out the possibility of infection.
Those who show symptoms of respiratory illness and other possible signs of the 2019-nCoV are urged to stay home or seek medical attention regardless of travel history. For a list of affected areas, symptoms, and the latest updates on the 2019-nCoV, visit www.doh.gov.ph/2019-nCov.
All students who have to self-quarantine should report to the University First Aid Station through the Center for Student Affairs – Office of Student Services by contacting Mrs. Arianne Vito Cruz at 86370912 to 26 local 280 or email [email protected]. Students will be excused from their classes for up to 14 days and be allowed to make up for their absences only upon presentation of a medical certificate of consultation with supporting documents from medical professionals. Medical clearances should be submitted to the University First Aid Station for further review before returning to school.
Employees who have to self-quarantine should advise their respective superiors and HRM (through Weng Quesada or Zoila Pilola) to make the necessary arrangements regarding their absence from work.
Students and employees are also advised against travelling abroad and to suspend all off-campus activities and gatherings for the time being while the University continues to conduct its due diligence in monitoring all members of the community for signs of infection.
UA&P also recommends taking the following measures as advised by WHO:
- Wash your hands frequently with an alcohol-based hand rub or soap and water.
- Practice respiratory hygiene. When coughing and sneezing, cover mouth and nose with flexed elbow or tissue. Discard tissue immediately into a closed bin and clean your hands with alcohol-based hand rub or soap and water.
- Maintain social distancing. Maintain at least 3 feet distance between yourself and other people, particularly those who are coughing, sneezing and have a fever.
- Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth.
- If you have a fever, cough and difficulty breathing, seek medical care early. Tell your health care provider if you have traveled to an area in China where 2019-nCoV has been reported, or if you have been in close contact with someone who has traveled from China and has respiratory symptoms.
- If you have mild respiratory symptoms and no travel history to or within China, carefully practice basic respiratory and hand hygiene and stay home until you are recovered, if possible.
- Practice general hygiene measures when visiting live animal markets, wet markets or animal product markets and avoid consumption of raw or undercooked animal products.
For more guidance on prevention, visit www.who.int.