KCC students and employees,
Kellogg Community College continues to closely monitor reports and information regarding the coronavirus (Covid-19) as it evolves. This is the College’s third written update regarding Covid-19 and all previous guidance still applies.
As of today, there are no confirmed cases of Covid-19 in Michigan, but it is clear from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) that the virus is spreading rapidly in the United States. Also, as of today, KCC has one instructor who is self-quarantined due to a possible exposure based on recent travel to an area in the United States with at least one confirmed case. That instructor is working from home and fulfilling all responsibilities with no disruption to students.
KCC continues to proactively advise all students, employees and campus guests to:
- Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth with unwashed hands.
- Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds.
- Use an alcohol-based sanitizer containing at least 60 percent alcohol if soap and water are not available.
- Stay home if you are ill.
- Avoid close contact (touching or shaking hands) with people who are ill.
- Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces.
What KCC has done so far
Regarding KCC facilities, the College has increased its supply of hand sanitizer and sanitary wipes, which are available upon request via Institutional Facilities. The College also has installed wall-mounted hand sanitizer dispensers near building entrances and hung informational posters encouraging hand washing in all restrooms. Additionally, the College’s contract custodial staff have been instructed to use extra disinfectant and daily wipe all door handles and hard surfaces in classrooms, offices and common areas.
For KCC employees who have Blue Cross Blue Shield insurance coverage, the provider has announced it will fully cover the cost of medically necessary Covid-19 tests prescribed by physicians. Tests are not conducted upon patient request alone; they must be ordered by a physician through local and state health departments based upon specific criteria. Blue Cross Blue Shield also is waiving prior authorizations for diagnostic tests and covered services related to Covid-19 and waiving early medication refill limits on 30-day prescription maintenance medications. Employees should contact their health care professionals for additional guidance and Blue Cross Blue Shield if they have questions about specific coverages.
How KCC is preparing for possible next steps
Although there is no declared state of emergency locally or in Michigan, a KCC team is preparing to rapidly deploy additional measures if needed. Future steps may have impacts on face-to-face classes, theater productions, athletic events, College-related travel and other campus operations that involve large gatherings of people. The College treats the safety of its students, employees and guest with utmost seriousness and will closely follow practices advised or ordered by local, state and federal health agencies. For more information on how the State of Michigan is preparing, visit its coronavirus web page.
It is important to note that, as of now, all classes and events are continuing as planned. The College will communicate as appropriate if there are any modifications or cancellations. As always, individuals should make health-related decisions that are best for them based on their personal situations.
For now, students are advised to keep up with their coursework and remain in communication with their instructors. Instructors are advised to consider moving their course content to the Moodle platform in case the Covid-19 situation requires KCC to quickly shift face-to-face classes to an online-only model. Institutions of higher education in several states are making this shift already. Additional details and supports will be shared directly with instructors as warranted.
Thank you for your continued preparedness, professionalism and calmness.
Sincerely,
Eric J. Greene
Chief Communications Officer