Augustana is monitoring and responding to the outbreak of the respiratory illness caused by a novel coronavirus. This page provides information that is regularly updated for the campus community, including AU's preparedness and response, guidance for travelers and links to important resources.
In response to the rapidly evolving events surrounding COVID-19 (also called novel coronavirus), Augustana is updating its information and guidance in the following ways, which may be further updated as local and global conditions change. If you have COVID-19 symptoms, or are feeling sick, please call the Campus Clinic at 605.274.5552.
The South Dakota Department of Health (SD-DOH) continues to monitor the emergence of the novel coronavirus. ► View updates.
About Coronavirus Disease (COVID-19)
SARS-CoV-2 is the virus identified as the cause of the COVID-19 outbreak. The latest situation summary updates are available on the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention's (CDC) web page Coronavirus Disease 2019.
The virus is spread from person to person through close contact and respiratory droplets that are produced when an infected person coughs or sneezes. It may be possible to get COVID-19 through contact with a contaminated surface or object; however, this is not the main way the virus spreads.
Some populations are at higher risk of getting very sick from this illness. This includes:
Older adults
People who have serious chronic medical conditions like:
Heart disease
Diabetes
Lung disease
Individuals who are in these high risk categories should consult their physician about prevention and protection measures.
Steps to prevent spread of respiratory viruses
According to the CDC, the best way to prevent infection with SARS-CoV-2 virus is to avoid exposure. However, there are everyday preventive actions recommended by the CDC to help prevent the spread of respiratory viruses:
Practice social distancing and avoid close contact. Close contact is defined as being within approximately 6 feet (2 meters) of a COVID-19 case for a prolonged period of time; close contact can occur while caring for, living with, visiting, or sharing a healthcare waiting area or room with a COVID-19 case.
Avoid having direct contact with infectious secretions of a COVID-19 case (e.g. being coughed on)
Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. If soap and water are not available, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer.
Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth with unwashed hands.
Stay home when you are sick.
Cover your cough or sneeze with a tissue, then throw the tissue in the trash.
Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces.
What to do if you think you have been exposed
Monitor any cold-like symptoms for severity.
If you have a temperature, please seek medical care and practice preventive actions.
Augustana’s Sanford Campus Clinic is open to students Monday through Friday from 8:30 a.m.-3:30 p.m.
The clinic is located in the lower level of Solberg Hall and is staffed by a Registered Nurse (no copay) and Clinical Nurse Practitioner (insurance/copay applies).
To schedule an appointment, call 605.274.5552 or please report your condition by email at: goodhealth@augie.edu.
Quick Links
Transmission: Information about how the Coronavirus Disease is thought to be spreading from ill people to others.
Symptoms: Describes signs and symptoms of COVID-19 infection.