Dear USF community,
The Â鶹ÊÓƵ is working diligently to monitor and respond to the evolving COVID-19 (coronavirus) pandemic. We understand that these are uncertain times, and the rapidly shifting news is unsettling for us all. We are facing a challenge that is unprecedented. But there is something stronger than this challenge – something stronger than fear – and that is the compassion, adaptability and resilience of the USF community.
Today we learned that a staff member in the USF Counseling Center on the Tampa campus has tested positive for COVID-19. This employee is self-isolating at home in accordance with guidelines established by the Florida Department of Health (FDOH) and the U.S. Centers for Disease Control.
Based on information gathered by FDOH, we understand the employee had direct contact with 13 students and several employees. FDOH is providing these individuals with guidance and will be monitoring them while they continue their investigation to determine if any other USF employees had direct contact with this individual.
The employee who tested positive was on campus on Monday, March 9, and Thursday, March 12. We understand that students who visited the counseling center on one of those two days may be concerned, and we encourage you to call USF Student Health Services with any questions at 813-974-2331. USF will continue to work with FDOH staff to ensure they have any and all information necessary to continue their investigation.
We sincerely wish our staff member, and any others who may be affected, a full and rapid recovery.
The USF Counseling Center will continue to provide services to students remotely.
As a reminder, students are strongly encouraged to remain off campus through the remainder of the spring semester, if possible. USF employees (faculty, staff and OPS) should continue to work remotely with supervisor approval, if possible.
Students who need guidance or medical assistance should contact Student Health Services:
- Tampa Student Health Services (SHS100) at 813-974-2331
- St. Petersburg Wellness Center (SLC 2200) at 727-873-4422
- Sarasota-Manatee Counseling and Wellness Center (5805 Bay Shore Rd.) at 941-487-4254
Faculty and staff who are concerned about their health should contact Dr. Lynette Menezes in USF Health at assesscovid@usf.edu.
As always, the health and safety of our community is of paramount importance as we work closely with our local, state and federal partners.
Sincerely,
Steve Currall
President and Professor