Are there confirmed cases of COVID-19 at Lafayette?
No. We’re committed to keeping the campus community informed about important health information. If there is a case of COVID-19 on campus, the College will share that information with the community.
Are there confirmed cases of COVID-19 in Pennsylvania?
For updated state information, visit the Pennsylvania Department of Health’s website.
Is the Health Center prepared to evaluate whether a person might have COVID-19?
Testing for COVID-19 is only being performed at PA Department of Health laboratories. In the coming days/weeks, testing will become more widely available in local hospitals and commercial labs.
How is the College/Health Center handling members of the community who have traveled to a CDC-designated Level 3 area?
The College, which is following guidance from the PA Department of Health and the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), strongly advises against personal travel to any areas designated by the CDC as high impact zones for COVID-19, which can change daily. Anyone traveling to a country or domestic region that is currently or becomes a Level 3 area designated by the CDC will be required to complete a 14-day self-isolation period before being cleared for return to campus.
If you have questions about where the virus is active you can find additional information on the CDC website or contact Dr. Jeff Goldstein at (610) 330-5001 or goldstej@lafayette.edu.
What are the differences between self-monitoring, self-isolating and social distancing?
Self-monitoring: monitoring yourself for fever by checking your temperature twice a day and remaining alert for symptoms including cough and difficulty breathing
Self-Isolating: separation of a person known or reasonably believed to be infected with an infectious disease from those who are not infected.
Social distancing: remaining out of congregate settings and maintaining a distance of at least 6 feet from others.
What is the best defense against contagious viruses such as seasonal influenza and COVID-19?
The best defense against contagious viruses is to remain vigilant and take precautions to minimize the risk of all contagious infectious diseases.
- Wash your hands frequently with soap and water.
- Cover your cough and sneeze with a tissue or your sleeve.
- Clean surfaces, door knobs, keyboards with germicidal wipes.
- Stay out of class/work when you are sick.
- Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth with unwashed hands.
What type of office cleaning should be done if there is a case of COVID-19?
As with any seasonal respiratory illness, routine cleaning is effective. Routine cleaning products are sufficient. Bleach is not necessary.
Is the College cancelling any events?
Not presently. The College is following guidance from the PA Department of Health officials. The fluidity of the situation may cause this to change in the coming days and weeks.
What if I am experiencing increased anxiety or stress related to concerns about family in impacted areas or COVID-19 on campus?
Students who are experiencing increased anxiety or stress related to concerns about family in impacted areas may see a counselor. To make an appointment for counseling, please call 610-330-5005 or stop by the Counseling Office, located on the second floor of Bailey Health Center. As a reminder, the Center maintains drop-in consultation hours 10:00-11:30 and 1:00-3:30 Monday-Friday.
Where can I get more information on COVID-19?
For up-to-date information, please check the following websites:
US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)
World Health Organization