Coronavirus Update

Posted on March 3, 2020

Dear Campus Community,

I understand some in our community are feeling concerned and uncertain regarding the coronavirus (COVID-19) situation developing in the United States and abroad. While there are no confirmed cases in Fresno County at the time this email is distributed (4:15 p.m. 3/3/20) I want to inform you of the steps we have been taking to monitor the situation and prepare for potential impacts on our campus, as we’ve done previously during other communicable-disease outbreaks.

First, I have tasked members of our incident response team, including faculty from our academic Department of Public Health, to monitor the situation continuously and to be responsive to questions and concerns from our campus community as this situation evolves. We have emergency preparedness plans and procedures in place in the event of any impact or disruption to campus operations.

As previously communicated, the University is in regular contact with the Fresno County Department of Public Health (FCDPH), and has protocols in place with them to ensure quick and decisive communication and action as needed. We continue to follow the recommendations of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and the California Department of Public Health (through FCDPH).

In addition, we have developed a Fresno State Coronavirus Information webpage to keep you updated on the University’s preparedness and status. Beyond health tips, travel advisories and related information, we also answer frequently asked questions. I encourage you to take the time to read all of the information posted on the webpage. Given the fluid nature of the situation, please check back frequently to the webpage for updated information.

As explained on the Fresno State Coronavirus Information page, there are currently no plans to cancel classes, and we will not plan to do so unless directed by the CSU Chancellor’s Office or the Fresno County Department of Public Health.

Lastly, please rely on information linked to directly from this message and on the new Fresno State Coronavirus Information page. We will continue to provide updates as we have them.

Sincerely,

President Joseph I. Castro