Laney College COVID-19 Update

Dear Laney Community,

I am writing to inform you of a positive COVID-19 test that was reported by an employee to the College today.

​On December 20, 2020, a Laney College employee reported experiencing possible symptoms to their supervisor. The individual had last been on campus on December 18, 2020. The employee was asked to get tested and coworkers in that individual's area were subsequently directed not to report to work that week and were asked to self-quarantine. The employee was tested during the winter closure and reported the positive result to their supervisor this morning. As it is now confirmed, we are obligated by law to share with the campus community.

The health and well-being of our students and employees are paramount. If you develop flu or other symptoms including dry cough and fever, please contact your medical provider. As a response to protect everyone’s health and safety, this message serves as notification, though we cannot identify the individuals who tested positive for the virus due to privacy laws.

During this time of both Purple Tier status and a Stay Home Order through January 4, 2021, please avoid making unnecessary trips to Laney College or any campus unless you are performing essential functions. Employees who have such urgent business on campus should submit the Campus Access Request Form - https://tinyurl.com/y6h37bee - so that their supervisor may review.

The Laney College campus remains officially closed until May 29, 2021, with exceptions made for individuals performing essential roles on campus.

We ask that you abide by Federal Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) Guidelines to protect your health and those around you. They are as follows:

• Abide by state guidelines as it relates to counties in the Purple Tier. Also, please observe the Stay-at-Home order from the state: https://www.gov.ca.gov/2020/12/03/california-health-officials-announce-a-regional-stay-at-home-order-triggered-by-icu-capacity/

• Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, especially after you have been in a public place, or after blowing your nose, coughing, or sneezing.

• If soap and water are not readily available, use a hand sanitizer that contains at least 60 percent alcohol. Cover all surfaces of your hands and rub them together until they feel dry.

• Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth with unwashed hands.

• Follow all recommendations provided by the CDC.

• If you have medical questions, please contact your health care provider. Students with concerns can contact the Roots Clinic at (510) 533-1248 (please provide your student ID during the call).

• If you, or someone in your household, shows COVID-19 related symptoms, please notify Human Resources, your immediate supervisor, Vice President Derek Pinto, or me. Be assured that we will maintain confidentiality to the highest degree possible.

As everyone’s health and safety are our priority, we will continue to assess the situation and provide updates.

For any further questions, please contact Administrative Services at dpinto@peralta.edu. Also, please visit https://safe.peralta.edu/ for the most up-to-date information and resources regarding COVID-19 for students, faculty/staff, and the community.

We appreciate everyone continuing to do their best to support our students and colleagues.

Sincerely,

Rudy Besikof
President
Laney College