What you need to know about Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19)
The University of Mississippi continues to actively monitor the spread of the novel Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) due to infection with novel coronavirus (2019-nCoV). The university’s Emergency Management Services and Student and Employee Health Services remain in contact with state public health officials and Baptist Hospital. The safety and well-being of the university community is always our highest priority. We will update this page as needed to keep our campus community informed.
The Mississippi State Department of Health has established a COVID-19 hotline for the general public, 877-978-6453. It is available 24/7.
Links:
Information about Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) — CDC
Mississippi State Department of Health
Baptist Memorial Hospital-North Mississippi
U.S. Department of State Travel Advisories
What should I do if I feel sick?
If you develop symptoms such as fever, cough and/or difficulty breathing or have been in close contact with a person known to have COVID-19, stay home and call Student or Employee Health or your local primary healthcare provider. At this time, your healthcare provider will determine if you need to be tested for COVID-19 based on guidelines from the CDC and the Mississippi State Department of Health. Please note that many people will have only mild illness, and these patients can be managed at home without the need for hospitalization or visits to emergency rooms. For additional information, you can also contact Baptist Memorial Hospital’s 24-hour hotline, 866-941-4785 or the Mississippi State Department of Health’s 24-hour COVID-19 hotline, 877-978-6453.
Preventing the illness
The best way to prevent infection is to avoid being exposed to this virus. To prevent the spread of respiratory viruses, the CDC recommends everyday preventive actions, including:
- 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.
These are everyday habits that can help prevent the spread of several viruses. CDC also offers specific guidance for travelers.
What happens if a case is identified?
The Mississippi State Department of Health and local public health agencies will be integrally involved if a case is detected in our area. We remain in close contact with them to understand their protocols and refine our plans as the recommendations from national and state authorities evolve and change.
HEALTH CONTACTS
Student Health Services, 662-915-7274
Employee Health Service, 662-915-6550
Baptist Memorial Hospital, 866-941-4785 (Hours: 24/7)
Mississippi Department of Health, 877-978-6453 (Hours: 24/7)