Dear parents,
The health and safety of our students is always the top priority at The University of Tulsa. We are actively monitoring the potential impact of coronavirus (COVID-19) on our community. At this time, there are no confirmed cases of coronavirus in the state of Oklahoma.
I had hoped my first email to you as interim president would be on a happier note, but as coronavirus concerns increase, I wanted to take a moment to update you on how we are preparing at TU.
We are fortunate to have an excellent staff of professionals across campus planning for – and responding to – the challenges posed by COVID-19. Our Crisis Management Team is meeting daily and coordinating with local and state partners to prepare the university to respond quickly and effectively to this evolving situation. We will continue to update the TU website with the latest information and guidance.
Campus courses and study abroad
The Provost’s Office is working with deans, faculty and Information Technology staff to assess the feasibility of moving courses online, if necessary. The Center for Global Engagement, in collaboration with our Crisis Management Team, is closely monitoring news related to the coronavirus. This week, we made the decision to cancel study abroad programs scheduled over spring break. Updates and decisions on future trips will be made in a timely fashion with the safety of our students always at the forefront. We will communicate with faculty, staff, students and families as long as health concerns persist.
Prevention and treatment
There is no vaccine to prevent COVID-19, and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention advise that the best way to prevent infection is to avoid being exposed to the virus. Preventive measures your student can take include staying home when sick, appropriately covering coughs and sneezes, cleaning frequently touched surfaces and washing hands often.
University of Tulsa policy requests that all students, faculty and staff who have traveled to countries with a level 3 or 4 travel health notice (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention) self-quarantine for 14 days prior to returning to TU’s campus. Anyone who has recently traveled to an area with a reported COVID-19 outbreak and develops a fever and symptoms of respiratory illness, such as coughing or difficulty breathing, should contact the Tulsa Health Department at 918-582-WELL (9355) immediately.
Currently, there is no specific antiviral treatment for COVID-19 infection. If your child does not feel well, they should first call the Alexander Health Center to speak to a medical professional who can discuss any health concerns over the phone.
Additional resources
- Tulsa Health Department – About Coronavirus Disease (COVID-19)
- Oklahoma State Department of Health – Information Regarding Travel, Spread of Coronavirus, Frequently Asked Questions and More
If you have specific questions, consult our information page and then follow up as needed with the appropriate office or staff member. Please encourage your children to take care of themselves and each other. Thank you for your understanding, support and patience as we continue our planning to ensure TU provides a safe, healthy learning environment for all of our students.
Sincerely,
Janet K. Levit
Interim President