4/11/22 - Confirmed COVID-19 Cases

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Dear Members of the Southwestern Community,

We were made aware today that two Southwestern students who accessed campus between April 5 – 7, 2022 have tested positive for COVID-19. In accordance with county guidelines, Southwestern directed the students to self-isolate in their homes and follow their medical providers' advice. Due to privacy concerns, Southwestern will not be releasing the names of these individuals. Under the guidance of public health protocols, Southwestern conducted a review to identify any persons on campus who may have been in close contact with these individuals. All identified individuals are being contacted and advised of Southwestern’s and public health testing and potential exposure protocols.

Through the contact tracing process, it has been determined that these reported cases are not connected to one another.

Our maintenance staff is conducting extra cleaning and disinfecting of the high touch areas on campus (e.g., elevators, stairwells, restrooms, common areas, etc.) in addition to the ongoing increased cleaning and disinfecting of these areas.

It is imperative that we all remain vigilant in our collective efforts to keep everyone safe and healthy. We all should follow our public health officials' guidance by wearing a face covering, practicing social distancing where appropriate, and using good hygiene practices such as covering coughs and sneezes, washing our hands, and avoiding touching our faces. Also, please do not come to campus if you are not feeling well and have any symptoms associated with COVID or another communicable disease. 

Additionally, our public health officials strongly recommend everyone over the age of 5 years to get a COVID-19 vaccination to protect themselves and their community. Our current vaccines are safe and are the most effective protection against COVID-19.

How to Stay Healthy and Reduce Your Risk:
http://publichealth.lacounty.gov/media/Coronavirus/docs/protection/ReduceRiskInfographic.pdf

What to Do if You are Sick:
http://publichealth.lacounty.gov/acd/ncorona2019/covidcare/

Home Isolation Instructions for People with COVID-19:
http://ph.lacounty.gov/acd/ncorona2019/covidisolation/

Home Quarantine Instructions for Close Contacts to COVID-19:
http://publichealth.lacounty.gov/acd/ncorona2019/covidquarantine/

COVID-19 Vaccine Information:
http://www.publichealth.lacounty.gov/media/Coronavirus/vaccine/index.htm

Let's continue working together to keep our community safe and healthy.

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Vivien Lewis 
COVID Compliance Manager