Maintaining a safe and healthy learning environment is a priority at KU
Consequently, a response plan has been prepared in the case of a pandemic to save and protect lives and property and to ensure institutional continuity and recovery.
Important Definitions
Pandemic
A widespread outbreak of disease that:
- Occurs throughout the world
- Is caused by a new strain
- Spreads easily from person to person due to lack of immuinity
- Overwhelms the existing support systems
Isolation
Separation of sick people with a contagious disease from people who are not sick.
Quarantine
Separation and restriction of movement of people who were exposed to a contagious disease to see if they become sick.
Social Distancing
Reducing the frequency, proximity and duration of contact between people to reduce the chances of spreading the disease. For example:
- Cancellation of classes special events such as athletic events
- Elimination of services delivered to groups such as public dining
- Encouragement of individuals to limit contact with others by remaining in their homes.
Learn more about Social Distancing
Infection Control
The utilization of the following to control the spread of disease:
- Training/education: personal hygiene, infection risk factors, etc.
- Engineering controls: changes to the work environment (ex: sneeze guards between customers)
- Administrative controls: scheduling work tasks in a way that minimizes contact between employees
- Work practices: altering processes to reduce contact between employees and customers (ex: distance learning, providing service by phone)
- Personal protective equipment: equipment and materials that create barriers
