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.
In-Kingdom travel
Per Saudi Government regulations, all banks, schools, restaurants and most businesses are now closed to help slow the progression of COVID-19 transmission. KAUST strongly advises against travel to Jeddah, Makkah, Medina and other regional population centers as your return to campus from these locations puts the KAUST community at increased risk. We understand that getting off campus can be important to visit family, for shopping, for recreation and more, but everyone’s contribution to limiting contact is essential to keeping our community healthy.
Social Distancing and Gathering Guidance
To support social distancing in the workplace, KAUST has introduced a number of important steps including remote working and online meetings as well as the cancellation of conferences and events.
In addition, KAUST and TKS students have successfully transitioned to distance learning while the daycare, and recreation facilities and shops have closed. While we recognize there is going to be disruption to our work and personal lives, we must continue in our efforts to safeguard the community and support one another.
While out in public:
- Wash or sanitize your hands wherever possible, including entering and leaving buildings
- Maintain a distance of 2 meters (6 feet). COVID-19 is transmitted through droplets—being coughed on, or touching something that someone coughed on, for example, and then touching your face and allowing that pathogen to get into your system through your eyes, nose, or mouth
- If you are organizing a personal gathering in your apartment or home, please consider whether you can postpone or cancel the event. If you decide to go ahead, you should assess the risks and reconsider any aspect that may increase risk of transmission.
Personal care
The KAUST Barber Shop and Ladies Salon are now closed until further notice.
Shipping
All shipments will continue to come through and be sent out for the foreseeable future.
Banking and finance
As of March 17, SABB bank in KAUST will be closed, SAMBA bank in KAUST will remain open with reduced staff. The ATM’s will continue to be refilled as usual.
Waste management collection
Effective Tuesday, March 17, the waste management service will be shifting to a one bin collection service. There will be two collections per week.
Staying informed
Stay informed about COVID-19 and KAUSTs efforts via KH.kaust.edu.sa/coronavirus.
You can also contact our dedicated helpline via CoronavirusTaskforce@kaust.edu.sa or by calling 012 808 0950. The current working hours of the helpline are currently Sunday to Thursday, 8:00 a.m. until 5:00 p.m.
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.
Individuals can seek professional support by contacting KAUST Health and scheduling an appointment with qualified professionals who can guide and advise you.
Employees and dependents: you can 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.
Please remember, we care, be kind to one another and stay healthy.
Daniel Buttigieg
Director, KAUST Health
Chair, Coronavirus Taskforce
