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March 9, 2020

Coronavirus Protections at Baruch College

Dear Students, Faculty, and Staff,

As you are aware, the 2019 coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak continues to spread, and it is a concern to us all. In these apprehensive times, I want to assure you that the leadership of the College is working to make sure that our facilities remain safe and accessible.


*        We have increased the frequency with which the College's custodial staff  is cleaning restrooms and the surfaces of counters, handles, and doorknobs.

*        We are making it a top priority to continuously check, refill, and reorder soap in the restrooms. (We have standing orders for soap, hand sanitizer, and toilet paper.)

o   It is worth reiterating that the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has issued specific guidelines for effective handwashing<https://www.cdc.gov/handwashing/show-me-the-science-handwashing.html> that everyone should review.

o   Also, it is important to understand that excessive use of toilet paper to cover floors and toilets does not reduce COVID-19 transmission, but it does waste resources and tax our ability to keep facilities clean and well supplied. Last week, we had a temporary problem with a water pump in the Newman Vertical Campus that restricted water to the restrooms. This issue has now been resolved, and the pumps henceforth will be monitored closely.


*        To the best of our knowledge, there are currently no confirmed cases of COVID-19 among Baruch's students, faculty, or staff members. Out of an abundance of caution, however, a number of individuals who have recently returned from CDC Level 3 countries, or who may have had contact with potentially infected individuals in the community, have voluntarily self-quarantined.


*        The Office of the Dean of Students is available to help students to address any concerns they may have. Please contact 646-312-4570 or [log in to unmask]<mailto:[log in to unmask]>.


*        CUNY also continues to update the University community<https://www.cuny.edu/coronavirus/> on COVID-19, and to provide links to the latest guidance from the New York State Department of Health, the New York City Department of Health and Mental Hygiene, in addition to the CDC. There is a link to the dedicated CUNY site at the top of the Baruch College homepage<https://www.baruch.cuny.edu/>.

Finally, it is important to bear in mind that we are all in this together-as a College, a city, and a global community, and we need to look out for and help each other to get through this difficult period while we await the development of a coronavirus vaccine. So this is a time for caution, vigilance, and concern for others in our community, and not a time for panic or stigmatization.

Along with the messages you are getting from CUNY, Baruch will continue to send you any additional guidance and updates as the situation requires.

Sincerely,
Mitchel B. Wallerstein, PhD
President

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