February 29, 2020
Update on the UW’s preparations related to the novel coronavirus
Message from President Ana Mari Cauce
As you may have heard, today public health officials announced that the first death in the United States attributed to the novel coronavirus has occurred in King County. While this individual was not a UW student or employee, our hearts are with his family and friends during this time of tremendous loss. They’re also with those who have been affected by this outbreak directly, including through the impact on their loved ones, and through heightened anxiety and fear, discriminatory experiences or economic loss.
It is important to emphasize that thus far the vast majority of people who have become ill with COVID-19 (the disease caused by the novel coronavirus) have experienced relatively mild symptoms, such as fever and cough. As of this writing, fewer than 10 individuals in Washington have been diagnosed with this disease. One of them has already recovered and returned to a normal life, and we expect others will follow. Currently, no members of the UW community have been diagnosed with COVID-19.
I write today to ensure you are aware of how the University is working with public health officials to be as prepared as possible to protect the health of the UW community.
