South Georgia Technical College has made the decision to suspend classes and activities on all campuses and adult education sites beginning now through March 27th due to current issues and concerns resulting from the coronavirus (COVID-19), announced South Georgia Technical College President Dr. John Watford. The only exception will be the high school dual enrollment classes in open K-12 school systems.
“While a variety of factors influenced this decision, be assured that the health and safety of our students, faculty, and staff is always our primary concern. This remains a rapidly evolving situation and we know that members of our community may have additional questions. The SGTC emergency management team is meeting daily and will continue to assess the situation, adjust plans as necessary, and communicate frequently. Please monitor the South Georgia Technical College website and social medial channels for updated information and resources,” explained Dr. Watford.
South Georgia Technical College faculty and staff are asked to report on Monday, March 16th to receive additional information from their supervisors. Students living on-campus will be encouraged to leave if possible over the next two weeks, but the dorms will remain open for those that cannot leave. Food service will be provided.
No confirmed reports of individuals with the coronavirus or of individuals displaying systems have been reported at South Georgia Technical College. The overall risk of COVID-19 to the general public remains low, although elderly people and individuals with chronic medical conditions may be at increased risk for COVID-19. In this situation, as with any other virus such as influenza, prevention is a key strategy. Take precautions or measures to protect yourself and prevent the spread to others.
The college has distributed a “Prevention is the Best Cure!” flier to all faculty and staff and posted in public places on campus. Students living on-campus have received fliers with information about what they need to know about COVID-19 and what to do if they are ill. Automatic hand sanitizer stations are visible around campus and custodians are cleaning and disinfecting public areas more robustly.
The best prevention measures for this and any respiratory virus are:
- Wash your hands often with soap and warm water for at least 20 seconds. If soap and water are not available, use an alcohol-based hand santizer.
- 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.
Public health officials have released a phone number to provide Community Real Time Information: 1-855-962-0955.