COVID-19 Update—March 16

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The CCMT and the Coronavirus Taskforce continue to meet regularly to proactively appraise the situation, and set strategy and necessary policies that continue to strike a balance between protecting the community and minimizing disruption.

There are no confirmed COVID-19 cases on campus and we are working hard for that to continue to be the case.

The following are items that we wish to update you on today.

Updated contact information

Please note: a new phone number and email address has been set up to handle all of your inquiries – 012 808 0950 and coronavirus@kaust.edu.sa.

Vulnerable members of the community

As Saudi Arabia and KAUST continue to develop the measures to protect the more vulnerable in society from potential exposure to COVID-19 we recommend that the following higher risk groups self-isolate for a period of 14 days.

  • Over 65 year olds 
  • Pregnant women and nursing mothers 
  • People who have chronic medical conditions e.g. diabetes, asthma, hypertension (high blood pressure), COPD (chronic obstructive pulmonary disease), chronic kidney disease, coronary heart disease (angina and MI) 
  • People who are immunocompromised e.g. those taking immunosuppressants, receiving treatment for cancer or have immunodeficiency diseases 

Self-isolation requires an individual to remain in their accommodation for the set period of time.   Support will be in place both from KAUST Health and Community Life should you require it.  This is in line with newly released Ministry of Health guidelines.

Takeaway and delivery only

The campus and CSOB diners will move to a takeaway only model while restaurants will offer delivery and takeaway only, starting tomorrow, March 17, in accordance with newly released MOH guidelines.

Tamimi 

Tamimi stores, the diner, and dining services and facilities remain open. Over the past few weeks, Tamimi has been increasing its stock capacity above normal levels to ensure that we have enough supplies. In addition we have delivery contingencies in place should that become necessary.

South Beach update

Due to the newly released MOH guidelines, for the next 14 days, South Beach will be closed. We apologize as this conflicts with yesterday’s message, but we must support and comply with Kingdom regulations. We will reassess after the 14-day period.

IPTV Service Updates

In support of the effort to assist the community, and especially with the closure of the cinema and the cancellation of social events, we are making a few adjustments to the IPTV service.

Ladies Salon and Barber shop closure

To insure the safety of our staff and customers, the ladies salon and barber shop located on campus will be closed as of March 16, 2020.

KAUST Health Website

If you need to refer to previously published announcements related to COVID-19, you can do so at the KAUST Health website.

Mental health

During this time, we urge you to take your mental health seriously. Check social media in a purposeful and limited way. Get outside for a walk, cycle or job to relieve stress. And remember that resources are available.

Employees and their dependents can seek professional support by contacting KAUST Health and scheduling an appointment with qualified professionals who can guide and advise you. You can also contact the Employee Assistance Program (EAP) for online assistance, resources and seek support for counseling.

Graduate Students and their dependents can email Health, Wellness and Counseling at hwc@kaust.edu.sa to schedule an appointment with a counselor.

Thank you for helping to keep your community safe.

Daniel Buttigieg
Director, KAUST Health
Chair, Coronavirus Taskforce

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