March 15, 2020
Dear Tulane Students:
Over the past 24 hours, the number of confirmed COVID-19 cases has doubled in New Orleans, and the city has experienced its first two deaths from the virus. I am writing today to all the Tulane students on campus and off campus, regarding transmission of the virus. My message is simple: you must take immediate steps to prevent the virus from spreading to others due to your personal behavior.
The importance of social distancing at this time cannot be overstated. It is a best-practice recommendation of health professionals to prevent or slow the spread of a virus by human-to-human transmission. Social distancing suspends public gatherings and limits on-campus business to help prevent the spread of communicable diseases.
Social Distancing is applicable to all members of the Tulane community. You should not be partying, you should not be attending social events, you should not be in close proximity to others in bars, restaurants, house parties, etc. You should either be at home or in physical spaces in which you can maintain a six-foot distance from another individual whenever possible. Although young people are at less risk once becoming infected, we now know that individuals who may not have any outward symptoms can be carriers of the virus. The failure to practice social distancing spreads the virus and then the infected person unknowingly may pass it on to someone who is more vulnerable.
As always, you should be washing your hands frequently, not touching your face, and maintaining an appropriate social distance.
Please practice personal responsibility to prevent the virus from spreading during these unprecedented times.
Dr. Dusty Porter
