College community,

The College continues to react to the latest developments regarding the spread of COVID-19 (Coronavirus). We are using resources and recommendations provided by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the State University of New York (SUNY), the Orange County Health Department and others.

Yesterday, Governor Andrew M. Cuomo announced that the State University of New York's and the City University of New York's study abroad programs in China, Italy, Japan, Iran and South Korea have been suspended effective immediately. Additionally, out of an abundance of caution, the Governor indicated that SUNY and CUNY have cancelled campus-sponsored travel outside of the United States to impacted countries for the spring semester. SUNY and CUNY will continue to review CDC guidance and work closely with DOH to make additional determinations on continuing or cancelling upcoming travel at all other campus-sponsored international locations. 

Locally, SUNY Orange has increased the number of hand-sanitizing stations on our campuses, placing them in the areas of highest foot traffic. We are also stocking supplies of hand wipes, as available, in our libraries and computer labs.

The CDC and other credible sources continue to promote the use of trusted preventive measures (included below). CDC offers several free handwashing resources that include health promotion materials and information on proper handwashing technique.

As for accessing hot water, the College has increased the temperatures in our water tanks in order to bring hot water to the faucets sooner. We are analyzing those wait times and, if necessary, will add circulator pumps to provide quicker access to hot water. Faucets in the Rowley Center bathrooms only are equipped with a small lever that must be moved to the red dot in order to get hot water.

If you feel sick and have symptoms of a virus, you should contact your doctor or healthcare provider. Do not go to your doctor or urgent care without calling first. They can direct you on the proper way to visit their office or how best to address your symptoms at home if they are mild.

Additionally, you may call the SUNY Orange Wellness Center (845-341-4870) which has the ability to triage your situation by phone and offer additional information. It is vital to remember that you should stay home and avoid contact with others if you feel sick.

The SUNY Orange Wellness Center also recommends the following websites for additional information on the Coronavirus.

CDC: https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/about/index.html 

NYS Department of Health: https://www.health.ny.gov/diseases/communicable/coronavirus/#_blank 

Orange County Department of Health: https://www.orangecountygov.com/149/Health 

SUNY: https://www.suny.edu/health-alert/ 

Preventative measures

• Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. Use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer that contains at least 60% alcohol if soap and water are not available.
• Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth with unwashed hands.
• Avoid close contact with people who are sick.
• Stay home when you are sick.
• Cover your cough or sneeze with a tissue, then throw the tissue in the trash.
• Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces.