University

Relevant Information Corona-Virus (Kopie 2)

Dear Members of Staff,

The Corona Virus has been dominating the media for some time and now a case has occurred in Lübeck. We would like to take this opportunity to update you on current information (the references to staff-administrative questions affect staff working directly in university administration (Universitätsverwaltung):

In the past few weeks we have kept track of which members of staff and students have returned to the university from crisis regions and, together with these persons, have taken precautions accordingly.

Furthermore, what applies to our university is what applies to every single one of us and what can be gathered from the information publicly available: this new virus is comparable to influenza, so that there is no need for panic. Despite this, we should all take special care in order to contain the spread of the virus, and the best way to do this is through our own actions. To this end, we refer to the current conduct  recommendations of the Robert-Koch-Institut.

Essentially, this refers to basic, hand and cough hygiene. As far as possible, we will be installing additional disinfectant dispensers in public places such as the Audimax, and ensuring that the existing ones in the sanitary facilities are refilled regularly. In the case of larger events planned at the university, we will discuss the general set-up with the organisers and will then decide, giving regard to reasonable means, whether the event may require some modification. Also, we will be putting up posters on recommended hygiene as a regular reminder to us all.

With regard to a possible personal infection, we also refer to the recommendations of the Robert-Koch-Institute, which state that, in case of suspected infection, you should contact your doctor by phone or, outwith surgery hours, the „kassenärztliche Bereitschaftsdienst“, a GP hotline (Tel.: 116117). If the suspicion is substantiated, the Gesundheitsamt (Health Authority) must be informed in order to decide how to proceed. In this case, please inform the personnel department immediately, so that the next steps can be discussed. This may mean that it is advisabe to remain at home for two weeks. In such cases, staff should continue to work from home as far as is possible (Home Office).

If students are affected, the required absence is classified as „absent with valid excuse“ in cases of absence from exams.

Furthermore, the Presiding Committee will meet regularly within the scope of its crisis management group and will be keeping track of current developments.

I would also like to draw your attention to the information of the federal state of Schleswig-Holstein: https://www.schleswig-holstein.de/DE/Landesregierung/VIII/Presse/PI/2020/200225_VIII_Grippesaison_Corona.html

Should you have any questions, do not hesitate to contact Mrs Schmeyers or myself. All information with regard to the Corona Virus will be uploaded to the group set up to this end in FocusINSIDE so that you can find everything stored in one place.

Best regards
Sandra Magens