Thomas College is committed to providing a safe campus environment for all faculty staff and students. Thomas invites and expects all members of the campus community to assist in exercising and respecting the range of risk mitigation strategies that are designed to promote a healthy campus, recognizing that individual actions help contribute to the community’s overall experience. The College intends to follow local, state and federal guidelines, to provide support to the members of the community, to remain flexible to respond to changing circumstances, and to communicate with the campus on an ongoing basis.
Can I do anything to protect myself?
This information comes from the CDC website:
There is currently no vaccine to prevent Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19). The best way to prevent illness is to avoid being exposed to this virus. However, as a reminder, the CDC always recommends everyday preventive actions to help prevent the spread of respiratory diseases, including:
- Avoid close contact with people who are sick.
- Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth.
- Stay home when you are sick.
- Cover your cough or sneeze with a tissue, then throw the tissue in the trash. If you do not have a tissue, use your elbow/sleeve (not your hand).
- Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces using a regular household cleaning spray or wipe.
- Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, especially after going to the bathroom; before eating; and after blowing your nose, coughing, or sneezing. If soap and water are not readily available, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol. Always wash hands with soap and water if hands are visibly dirty.
For information about handwashing, see CDC’s Handwashing website.
Should I use a face mask?
In response to the Governors most recent announcement requiring the use of face masks in public, effective May 4, 2020 we are requiring essential employees to wear masks when coming to campus. The expectation is that you would bring your own masks. If for some reason you are unable to procure a mask and need to come to campus please contact:
- Lisa Desautels-Poliquin, Vice President for Student Affairs: 207-859-1220
- Michelle Joler-Labbe, Chief Human Resources Officer, 207-859-1240
If you have your own office space you do not need to wear the mask if you are alone. However, you should have it with you when using common spaces or walking in the hallway should you come in contact with another person. Additionally, if you share an office space or suite with others and cannot social distance you need to be wearing your mask at all times. The masks should to be 3 ply or multi layered cloth masks to be effective. The requirement will be in place until further notice.
What if I exhibit symptoms of this virus?
If you are a resident student and you are exhibiting symptoms of COVID-19, please call Health Services at: 207-859-1401.
All others in the Thomas College community who suspect they may be symptomatic are asked to call their primary care physician and should not come to campus.
Who can get tested for COVID-19?
Based on advice from the CDC, current healthcare practice is that healthcare providers will determine, based on each patient’s symptoms, if a test is warranted.
What are other helpful resources?
If you are seeking more information, we recommend referring to sources considered credible and informed. This includes the following websites:
