COVID-19 virus declared a global pandemic


Wednesday, March 11, 2020 Update

Earlier today, the World Health Organization declared the COVID-19 virus a global pandemic. The term pandemic refers to a disease “that has spread over several countries or continents, usually affecting a large number of people” (Centers for Disease Control 2020). Experts in Public Health have predicted this for some time which led the College to formulate the detailed response plan we’ve sent previously (also available at HERE).

While this declaration is certainly concerning, there is no need to panic. The College is doing everything possible to prevent COVID-19 infection on our campuses. This declaration does not change our response level at this point.

In addition to previous precautions, today the Viral Infection Response Team has decided to implement new precautions effective immediately for all campus residence halls including the Wesleyan Inn and Villas (until further notice):

  • Overnight guests will not be permitted in the residence halls on campus.
  • Current commuter students may visit the residence halls during regular visiting hours but not overnight.
  • Admissions/recruitment tours will not tour the residence halls on campus.
  • Visitors that are non-NCWC students will not be permitted inside the residence halls at any time.

We are also working with Dining Services to enhance precautions. Please know that we are monitoring information on this situation very closely. We will keep you updated as frequently as possible.