Coronavirus Update

According to the Centers for Disease Control

Coronaviruses are a large family of viruses which may cause illness in animals or humans. In humans, several coronaviruses are known to cause respiratory infections ranging from the common cold to more severe diseases such as Middle East Respiratory Syndrome (MERS) and Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome (SARS). The most recently discovered coronavirus causes coronavirus disease COVID-19.

COVID-19 is the infectious disease caused by the most recently discovered coronavirus. This new virus and disease were unknown before the outbreak began in Wuhan, China, in December 2019.

No one on the Austin Seminary campus is known to have been exposed to the coronavirus. Indeed, the City of Austin has not reported any instances of anyone having been exposed. 

Yes. We have distributed sanitizing wipes in every classroom and meeting room on campus. In addition, the custodial staff has been instructed to sanitize daily all “high-touch” surfaces, such as door knobs, handles, and more. We installed a hands-free sanitizer in the Vikery Atrium. Staff and Faculty have access to disinfecting wipes for their offices. Additional trash cans have been placed outside public restrooms for paper towel disposal.

Food Service - we are working with Southern Food Service to implement changes in our food service as well as preparing for further measures if needed.  In addition to all the changes the staff are doing in the kitchen and Stotts, guests are no longer allowed to use personal cups/mugs, and no refills of drinks will be allowed. Additional changes may be forthcoming.

The Seminary’s cabinet regularly convenes to prepare for anything that might threaten the well-being of our community. The Seminary is developing a plan to address any potential impact on our campus, offering alternative options that will ensure the continuity of classes and worship in the event of a local or regional outbreak.

According to the CDC, the most common symptoms of COVID-19 are fever, tiredness, and dry cough. Some patients may have aches and pains, nasal congestion, runny nose, sore throat or diarrhea. These symptoms are usually mild and begin gradually. Some people become infected but don’t develop any symptoms and don't feel unwell. Most people (about 80%) recover from the disease without needing special treatment. Around 1 out of every 6 people who gets COVID-19 becomes seriously ill and develops difficulty breathing. Older people, and those with underlying medical problems like high blood pressure, heart problems or diabetes, are more likely to develop serious illness. People with fever, cough and difficulty breathing should seek medical attention.

Students, faculty, and staff who experience symptoms similar to COVID-19 must self-isolate, stay home, and self-monitor. If you are experiencing flu-like symptoms, stay home and seek medical advice. If you are diagnosed with COVID-19 or if your healthcare provider believes you have COVID-19, contact Heather Zdancewicz as soon as possible.

We are preparing contingency plans to identify isolation / quarantine stations if needed.

According to the CDC, you should:

• Seek medical care.
• Stay home except to get medical care.
• Separate yourself from people and animals in your home.
• Wear a face mask.
• Not travel while sick.
• Cover your coughs and sneezes.
• Avoid sharing personal household items.
• Clean your hands often.
• Clean all “high-touch” areas every day.
• Monitor symptoms.
• Consult with healthcare providers and state and local health departments before discontinuing home isolation.

Please read this resource for more detail on each bullet above.

Students: The health and well-being of our community is of utmost importance and we rely upon each other to prevent the spread of this virus. There will not be punitive consequences for missing classes because of illness.

Staff: It is always recommended that sick staff take time-off to care for themselves, or family members who require care during an illness. Paid sick leave is available in the event of an illness or required medical attention of the employee or employee’s immediate family member (spouse, child(ren), parent(s) or parent(s) in-law). Remember that the Employee Assistance Program (EAP) is available if you are feeling anxious about anything. EAP is available to all employees, whether you have the Seminary’s insurance or not. The number for EAP is 1-866-640-2772.  For medical advice, you should continue to consult with your personal physician.