Research scale-down
Based on the statewide “stay home” order issued by Governor Newsom last night, and in accordance with UC guidance, the information that was provided yesterday on research continuity is now supplemented with additional guidance. Principal investigators (PIs) and Research and Extension Center Directors must move quickly to a complete cessation of non-critical research activity, while maintaining critical systems. Unfortunately, there are a number of projects and functions that, while of high importance, will cease. Research groups/staff may engage in only those research continuity activities that have been specifically approved by the UC ANR Associate Vice President (AVP). Please review the guidance here and contact Wendy Powers with questions.
What to do if UC ANR employees or supervisors learn of an ANR employee with a confirmed COVID-19 diagnosis
A positive COVID-19 diagnosis likely will come from the individual's healthcare provider, and it will trigger the healthcare provider to report to the local public health authority. At that point, the local public health authority may deploy protocols to notify other potentially exposed individuals, and this may include contacting UC ANR as the employer.
An employee who wants to report they are receiving care for confirmed or suspected COVID-19 needs to be treated confidentially, like any other medical information.
If you receive notice of a confirmed COVID-19 diagnosis, either from an employee or from a public health authority, first follow the direction of the public health authority. Second, notify Jodi Rosenbaum, UC ANR's disability and leave coordinator, and provide the employee name, primary work location, and any guidance provided by the health authority. If you receive a medical note, please FAX it to 1-530-231-0103, a confidential FAX line. (Include the “1” before the “530” when dialing.) Jodi will provide the necessary information to UC ANR's Emergency Response Team (ERT). The ERT will determine what measures should be taken with respect to notifying the ANR community and temporarily closing, cleaning and disinfecting ANR facilities based on the infected person's movements. Jodi will also implement procedures to monitor the employee's status and eventual return to work.
It's critically important to protect personal medical information, especially in this situation. In no circumstance should you reveal any personally identifiable information about the infected person except what is required to communicate with ANR Human Resources and other relevant authorities. Be careful about sharing any information that could unnecessarily increase fear or stigma.
Avoid automatic replies during COVID-19 remote working status
In order to convey that we are still open for business and that we are here to accommodate needs and answer questions remotely (and to limit the number of daily emails we all receive), we recommend that people do NOT use automatic replies, but rather insert something like the following sample text into their signature lines:
As you know, the State of California has issued a shelter-in-place order to reduce the spread of COVID-19 and (insert name of location/office/program) is now working remotely. We are still here to answer your questions and address needs during this unprecedented situation.
Best Regards,
Celebrating the positive
Several units within UC ANR are having “virtual happy hours” to stay connected, spend some time together and enjoy a break from addressing the virus crisis. They're touring each other's work spaces, meeting furry friends, sharing wellness tips and more. Great idea!
Often we talk about the need for increased science literacy and trust in science by the general public. As a result of the COVID-19 pandemic, the tide may be turning. Take a look at cartoonist Mike Luckovich's recognition of groups making a difference. Scientists are key to the team – woohoo! Let's make the most of this recognition and keep up the good science!
Glenda Humiston
Vice President