The following message was distributed to the CalArts community from CalArts President Ravi Rajan:
March 4, 2020
Dear CalArtians,
As you may know, there have been significant developments in the spread of coronavirus this week. Today, both Los Angeles County officials and the State of California have declared a public health emergency in response to the virus. It is important to note that these actions were not taken in panic or in fear, but to enhance preparedness and response capabilities and to create opportunities to receive federal funds. Health and civic officials continue to emphasize that there remains a low-risk to the local community.
As I have mentioned before, our staff is coordinating closely with LA and California public health officials to ensure we are taking the appropriate and necessary steps to protect our students, faculty, and staff. While you may have seen that there are now several cases of the coronavirus in the LA County area, none of these cases are at CalArts or in the Santa Clarita Valley. The new cases are related to people who either had contact with someone who traveled to affected countries or came into contact with someone who had coronavirus. Public health officials emphasized the new cases are not due to “community spread.”
We will continue to post updates to our website as more information becomes available, the situation evolves, or if there are changes in policies affecting students, faculty, or staff.
The Centers for Disease Control (CDC) and LA Public Health Department remind us to continue important health and wellness practices:
Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds;
Avoid touching your eyes, nose or mouth;
Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue or sleeve when coughing or sneezing;
Avoid close contact with people who are sick; and
Practice healthy habits (get enough sleep, exercise, nutritious meals, liquids, etc.).
In addition, if you or a family member is experiencing any flu-like symptoms, we ask that you stay home and that you communicate with your faculty and/or supervisor to make them aware of your situation.
If you have questions or concerns, please feel free to contact my office.
Sincerely,
Ravi
Go to Coronavirus Information and Updates