Classes suspended today

March 12, 2020

Dear Campus Community,

I am writing to inform you that the University was notified late last night by the Albany County Department of Health (ACDOH) of a confirmed case of COVID-19 among a member of the University community who resides off campus. This individual will remain isolated from the campus population until they have been cleared by public health officials.

As a precaution, classes are suspended today, Thursday, March 12, to allow ACDOH officials to complete their work in order to minimize public health risk.

We are working closely with ACDOH to reach out to any students, faculty or staff members who may have come in contact with this individual. Also, as a precaution, we are closing the business building today for cleaning. Faculty and staff who work in this building are advised to work from home today. For those employees who work in the business building and choose to report to work, please go to the University Hall lobby to be provided with an alternative work location.

I want to reassure you that all appropriate precautions are being taken, and that the University’s COVID-19 task force continues to address related academic, student affairs and facilities concerns. Please continue to monitor your e-mail for updates today, tomorrow and throughout spring break.

Additionally, as is the case with the regular cold and flu season, there are everyday measures we can take to protect our health and the health of our community, such as frequent hand washing, avoiding touching your face, staying home when sick, and avoiding close contact with people who are sick.

We also remind you to exercise caution regarding information you may see about the virus on social media, especially as it relates to our campus. ACDOH, in conjunction with the New York State Department of Health, provide the only official confirmation of any communicable disease, including COVID-19.

The University at Albany will continue to monitor developments related to COVID-19 with guidance from our local and state health departments and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).

For additional information, visit the COVID-19 information page on our website.

Let us continue to make sure that all members of our community are treated with the care, dignity and respect that we all deserve.
 

Sincerely,

Havidán Rodríguez
President