The new coronavirus, which first appeared in Wuhan, China, in mid-December 2019, has since spread from there to many other countries. Some links providing access to detailed information about this virus and COVID-19 (the disease it causes) are listed here:
– Republic of Turkey Ministry of Health Center for Community Health:
https://hsgm.saglik.gov.tr/tr/bulasici-hastaliklar/2019-n-cov.html
– World Health Organization:
https://www.who.int/emergencies/diseases/novel-coronavirus-2019
– US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention:
https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/index.html
Bilkent University has taken and is continuing to take various precautionary measures to ensure that all students and employees can continue to study and work in a safe environment.
The Bilkent University Health Center has begun monitoring students (including international and exchange students) who are arriving from or have recently visited those countries where COVID-19 cases are present, with reference to their date of entry into Turkey and the date when cases appeared in those countries. Students who are required to undergo COVID-19 testing in accordance with the criteria stipulated by the Ministry of Health are sent to Ankara City Hospital. COVID-19 has not been discovered in any Bilkent student who has been tested to date.
All Bilkent students and staff who have returned to Turkey after traveling abroad must email bilheal@bilkent.edu.tr and provide information about the dates and places of their travel. This information will guide the evaluation and follow-up of those with flu-like symptoms. Students or employees who show signs of fever, cough or shortness of breath should report to the Health Center immediately, even if they have not traveled abroad.
All members of the university cleaning staff have been trained in enhanced cleaning procedures. Particular attention is paid to the
cleaning of frequently touched surfaces, and frequent checks of cleaning procedures are conducted.
How to Protect Yourself from Coronavirus
Wash your hands often with soap and water for 20 seconds. If soap and water are not available, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer. Frequently touched objects and surfaces should be disinfected by wiping with a normal household cleaning spray.
Cover your cough/sneeze with a tissue or the crook of your arm. Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth with unwashed hands. Getting plenty of sleep, being physically active and eating nutritious food will also strengthen your immunity.
Healthy people are not required to wear a mask. Only those who show signs of flu infection should wear a mask.
You can follow the latest updates and information about the coronavirus and COVID-19 at https://w3.bilkent.edu.tr/bilkent/information-about-coronavirus-and-covid-19/.