On-Campus Student Tested for COVID-19, March 29, 2020

Dear students, staff and faculty:

I write to share that, earlier today, a student residing on campus was tested for COVID-19.

While we do not yet know the results of this test, we are acting out of an abundance of caution and notifying you of a potential case within our community. Pending the results of the test, the student will self-isolate and receive appropriate care.

Out of respect for the student’s privacy, and in following applicable Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) and Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA) privacy laws, the college will not release the student’s identity or any further identifying information.

Should a case of COVID-19 be confirmed on campus, the college will immediately notify the community and work with the Massachusetts Department of Public Health to inform all potential direct contacts.

As a reminder, any member of the Smith College community with symptoms related to COVID-19 must contact their primary care provider and follow the college’s exposure response and protocol. On-campus students must contact the Schacht Center immediately if they have symptoms consistent with COVID-19 and should not go to any health care provider without first speaking to a medical professional on the phone.

To track the health of the Smith community, it is critical that students and employees let the Schacht Center know if they are being tested for or are presumed positive for COVID-19 by contacting healthservices@smith.edu or by calling 413-585-2800.

I also urge you to follow prevention guidelines

Practice social distancing.
Wash your hands often with soap and warm water for at least 20 seconds.
Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth.
Clean things that are frequently touched (like doorknobs and countertops) with household cleaning spray or wipes.
Cover your mouth when you cough or sneeze. Use a tissue or your inner elbow, not your hands.
Stay home if you are sick and avoid close contact with others.

Sincerely,
Tara Dumont, MD
College Physician