Preventing Coronavirus at KAUST – Update 5

The KAUST Coronavirus Taskforce continues to meet regularly to adapt to the evolving 2019 Novel Coronavirus situation. We are committed to responding in a proportionate and appropriate manner to safeguard the community. Our priority is to keep you safe and well.

Latest updates:

As of February 11, 2020:

• There are no confirmed cases at KAUST or in Saudi at this time.
  
• Security Gates: For your safety, all people entering the community are being asked about their recent travel and are being provided with an educational flyer. Those who meet certain risk criteria will be required to visit KAUST Health for a clinical assessment.
  
• Community Events: The decision has been made to reschedule the upcoming Parade of Nations event to April 16 as part of our considered response to the Coronavirus threat. The Taskforce are continuing to monitor the situation and will continue to consider further changes to community events.
  
• High-risk regions: KAUST is maintaining a list of high-risk regions, which is being updated regularly. There is an update to this list today, to include: Malaysia and expanding to include all of the Republic of Korea and Thailand. The complete list can be found at kh.kaust.edu.sa/coronavirus.
  
• The number of people in quarantine at KAUST continues to reduce. This is because people are following official instructions not to return, and others have completed their 14-day quarantine period.
  
• All University offices and labs, The KAUST School and daycare, as well as all community services are functioning as normal.

Everyone can help

Everyone has a part to play with preventing coronavirus from affecting the University and the community members that support it. This includes helping to prevent the spread of germs. Here’s how you can help:

• Keep at least 1m (preferably 3m) away from people who are in quarantine.
• Avoid close contact with anyone who is unwell with a fever or cough or is sneezing.
• Help to stop catching and spreading germs:
  • Regularly wash your hands with soap and water and use hand sanitizer if available. Preferably do both.
  • Always cover your mouth and nose with a tissue when coughing or sneezing, then place the tissue in a bin.
  • Avoid touching your mouth, nose, and eyes with unwashed hands – germs can enter your body this way.
  • Use antibacterial wipes or solutions to clean surfaces.

What if I have symptoms or suspect I may be infected?

If you haven’t traveled to affected areas, you are at a low risk of being infected with 2019-nCoV. However, if you are concerned or if you develop a fever or respiratory symptoms, please remain where you are and call KAUST Health at 012-808-0940 or 012-808-4444 explaining your travel history and arrangements will be made to see you.

More information

More information about this topic is available at kh.kaust.edu.sa/coronavirus, including:

• Instructions for people currently in high-risk regions
• Instructions for people in quarantine
• Instructions for people who are planning travel
• Additional prevention resources and advice

Thank you for participating in keeping our community safe and well.

Regards,

Daniel Buttigieg
Director, KAUST Health
Chair, KAUST Coronavirus Task Force