Macquarie university

Interesting email from the university

I wanted to provide you with an update on our communications activity today in relation to COVID-19. It has been a busy 48 hours for the University, and we have been striving to issue communications in a timely and accurate manner on multiple issues.Today’s focus has been on the impact of the outbreak of COVID-19 at the BaptistCare aged care facility, which is in proximity to the University, and the visit of children from Banksia Cottage (one of Macquarie University’s childcare centres) to that aged care facility on 24 February 2020. On the advice of NSW Health, children from Banksia Cottage who visited the aged care facility are currently undergoing tests for COVID-19 as a precautionary measure. NSW Health has advised that Banksia Cottage can remain open and operational and no further individuals require testing.I am sure you may have concerns in relation to an outbreak of COVID-19 close to our campus. Some colleagues and students have asked me whether we should look at closing campus. I wanted to reassure you that NSW Health has advised that we should continue normal operations and be vigilant in accordance with prior advice on our website.Furthermore, the University continues to finalise our contingency plans in anticipation of various scenarios that may develop should the situation in relation to COVID-19 continue to evolve. We are taking all necessary steps to ensure that we continue to support both students and staff and we remain in close contact with both Government and NSW Health officials.Sincerely,Professor S. Bruce DowtonVice Chancellor, Macquarie University