Coronavirus Update

Since our last update on February 23, the number of novel Coronavirus (COVID-19) cases continues to rise globally. There are currently no cases of COVID-19 in Iowa. For most of the American public, who are unlikely to be exposed to this virus at this time, the immediate health risk from COVID-19 is considered low. However, the health and safety of our BVU students well-being is our primary concern.

Buena Vista University's campus

Since our last update on Feb. 23, the number of novel Coronavirus (COVID-19) cases continues to rise globally. There are currently no cases of COVID-19 in Iowa. For most of the American public, who are unlikely to be exposed to this virus at this time, the immediate health risk from COVID-19 is considered low. However, the health and safety of our BVU students well-being is our primary concern. 

We will continue to closely monitor this evolving situation and have created a resource page that will be updated as new or relevant information emerges about COVID-19.

Coronavirus Resource Page

www.bvu.edu/coronavirus

The health of our BVU community is our top priority. As we continue to closely monitor the Coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak, we will update this resource page with new and relevant information. 

What is Coronavirus (COVID-19)?

Coronavirus (COVID-19) is a respiratory illness that can spread from person to person. The virus that causes COVID-19 is a novel coronavirus that was first identified during an investigation into an outbreak in Wuhan, China.

What is the current state of coronavirus (COVID-19) as it relates to Buena Vista University?

As of March 5, there are currently no identified cases of coronavirus at BVU or in the state of Iowa.

What is the risk?

The World Health Organization has declared this a Public Health Emergency. For most of the American public, who are unlikely to be exposed to this virus at this time, the immediate health risk from COVID-19 is considered low. Travelers returning from affected international locations where community spread is occurring are at elevated risk of exposure.

How does Coronavirus (COVID-19) spread?

The virus that causes COVID-19 probably emerged from an animal source but is now spreading from person to person. The virus is thought to spread mainly between people who are in close contact with one another (within about 6 feet) through respiratory droplets produced when an infected person coughs or sneezes. 

What are the symptoms?

The CDC says those infected with the virus experience mild to severe respiratory illness with symptoms of: 

  • Fever
  • Coughing
  • Shortness of breath

CDC officials believe the symptoms can manifest in as few as two or as many as 14 days after exposure.

Tips for Prevention

People can help protect themselves from respiratory illness with everyday preventive actions.  

  • Avoid close contact with people who are sick.
  • Stay home when you are sick.
  • Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth with unwashed hands.
  • 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.
  • Coughing into one’s arm or tissue
  • Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces
  • Staying hydrated

What should I do if I am 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.

If you have traveled to or from an affected area in the last 14 days and feel sick with a fever,  cough, or have difficulty breathing, or if you have had close contact with someone showing these symptoms, the Iowa Department of Public Health is asking that you do the following:

  • Seek medical care right away. Before you go to a healthcare office, call ahead and tell them about your travel and your symptoms.
  • Do not travel while sick. Avoid contact with others. 
  • Cover your coughs and sneezes.
  • Wash hands often.

Is there a vaccine? 

There is currently no vaccine to protect against COVID-19. The best way to prevent infection is to take everyday preventive actions, like avoiding close contact with people who are sick and washing your hands often.

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