Updated 6:45 p.m. Feb. 29: Yolo County Public Health notified university staff that the UC Davis student who was quarantined and tested for COVID-19 had a negative result. The two other UC Davis students have also been notified and released from isolation.
What’s happened
A student living in the Kearney Hall residence was potentially exposed to coronavirus and has been in isolation at a home off campus since Feb. 25. The student has been tested for COVID-19, and we are waiting for results of that test. That student’s two roommates, who are asymptomatic (not showing any symptoms of illness), have been in isolation in on-campus apartments since Feb. 26.
General protections
What is UC Davis doing to stop the virus from spreading on campus?
As an additional precautionary measure, daily disinfection practices are being implemented within all Student Housing and Dining Services properties.
We urge everyone to follow simple precautions such as thorough handwashing to prevent the spread of disease, including influenza and coronavirus.
The latest information, including advice on how to stay healthy, can be found on our homepage (ucdavis.edu) and at health.ucdavis.edu.
Classes and operations
Will classes or other operations be canceled?
There are no plans to cancel classes or other operations at this time. We are working closely with the Yolo County Public Health Department and will follow its advice.
Residence and dining Halls
Is the affected residence hall going to be evacuated?
Expert advice tells us that this is not necessary. We have stepped up disinfection protocols out of an abundance of caution.
Health
What can be done to protect my student?
Yolo County Public Health is recommending washing hands regularly, covering your cough if you have one, and if you’re sick, staying home so you don’t spread the flu or other viruses.
Has the student health center taken any special measures?
Student Health and Counseling Services is following Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, or CDC, guidelines. Students who come in for appointments are being asked about their recent travel history as well as any possible contacts with people known to be sick with COVID-19. It is also helping encourage awareness about good hygiene practices that can help protect individuals and prevent the spread of the virus.
Why are all students not being tested?
We understand your concerns; however, the CDC determines who gets tested.
Is UC Davis going to issue face masks to students?
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention does not recommend that healthy people wear face masks. They are not effective for preventing transmission of this disease.
What should I do if I feel sick?
Stay home from school or work, wash hands thoroughly, cover your cough and avoid close contact with others. If you are sick and think that you may have been exposed to coronavirus, contact your health care provider.
Students should call Student Health and Counseling Services at 530-752-2349, or their primary medical provider, prior to arriving at the medical office. This will allow us to provide you with information on your illness and to plan for your visit to the clinic, if needed.
Counseling
I’m worried about myself or another member of the campus community.
The news, and especially the uncertainty, can feel very scary. Some also have concerns regarding family members and friends in other areas who are sick, or who are at increased risk. Students can call Counseling Services at 530-752-0871 to schedule an appointment with a counselor or to hear more about counseling resources on campus. Mental Health Crisis Consultation Services are available in 219 North Hall, 11 a.m.-4 p.m. Monday through Friday, and at the Student Health and Wellness Center, 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Monday through Friday. No appointment is needed.
Faculty and staff can contact the Academic and Staff Assistance Program, or ASAP, at 530-752-2727.
A supportive community
What is UC Davis doing to challenge the xenophobia, bigotry and racism associated with COVID-19?
The chancellor is urging members of the community to be kind and respectful to one another as the Principles of Community guide our behavior.
Campus leaders have called on the community to actively denounce and discourage prejudicial actions against people from other countries, bigotry and racism and treat all with respect. The full statement is available online. If you are being harassed or discriminated against or witness a situation, please report the incident.
Preparedness
I’m concerned this will become a big problem on campus and we are not prepared?
We want to assure our community that UC Davis and UC Davis Health have implemented measures to protect our community, such as increased cleaning protocols and increased communications. Our teams of professionals have drilled on how to respond to scenarios such as these.
Visiting campus
Is it safe for me to come to work, go to class or visit campus?
Yes! There is no additional risk than there is any other day of the year.
Travel abroad
Are UC Davis people still traveling to China and other countries with outbreaks?
UC President Janet Napolitano has directed the UC community to avoid all nonessential, university-related travel to countries that are designated with a CDC Warning Level 3 Travel Health Notice. Also see UC Davis Global Affairs travel advisories webpage.
Information
How can I make sure I’m getting the latest information from UC Davis?
UC Davis is sharing information on its website. We are updating the community and the public through this coronavirus website.
What other sources of information are available?
The Yolo County Department of Health and Human Services has a dedicated web page on coronavirus and a public telephone number for more information (530-666-8614). There are additional resources at the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and the California Department of Public Health.
Coronavirus Information for the UC Davis Campus
UC Davis is committed to the safety and well-being of our community. The campus is working closely with the local public health department and the University of California Office of the President. We continue to implement measures to protect our community.
Coronavirus Updates
Here is the most recent information for Coronavirus campus updates.