• March 6, 2020, 6:30 p.m.

    Dear BCCC Students:

    By now, you are likely aware of the outbreak of respiratory illness caused by a novel (new) coronavirus (COVID-19). We understand this can be concerning. Please be assured BCCC has been actively monitoring this growing health concern, and will continue to do so.

    Last night, Maryland Governor Larry Hogan announced three (3) confirmed positive cases of the Novel (new) Coronavirus (COVID-19) in Maryland (Montgomery County). The patients, a married couple in their 70s and a female in her 50s, are said to have contracted the virus while traveling overseas and are reported in good condition and quarantined to their homes.

    In response, the governor has also declared a state of emergency to “further mobilize all available state resources in response to this threat to public health.” A state of emergency also provides for greater coordination between state and local agencies.

    It is important that we remain calm, stay informed and practice everyday preventive steps that are always recommended to slow the spread of this and other respiratory illnesses like colds and flu (see below).

    As a proactive measure, I have assembled members of my President’s Cabinet to serve as the College’s crisis response team. 

    Please stay informed by visiting BCCC’s webpage on the Coronavirus for updates and to learn more about precautions to take, symptoms to watch, and other information from health officials. 

     Precautions to take

    Flu and respiratory illness season is still underway. Practicing these simple daily habits can help prevent the spread of this and other illnesses:

     Get a flu vaccine if you have not already done so. It’s not too late!

    • Avoid close contact with people who are sick.
    • Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth.
    • Wash your hands thoroughly (at least 20 seconds) and often with soap and water. Follow the CDC’s hand-washing guidelines.
    • Stay home when you are sick and consider seeing a medical professional.
    • Cover your cough or sneeze with a tissue, then throw the tissue in the trash.
    • Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces using a household cleaning spray or wipe.

     Stay Informed

    The health and wellness of our students and employees is very important to us. We will continue to monitor the impact of the coronavirus and provide updates as we get them. Thank you for your continued cooperation.

    Sincerely,

    Debra L. McCurdy, PhD

    President