Alerts

VCCCD COVID-19 Response Plan – Social Distancing

Coronavirus disease (COVID-19) is an infectious disease caused by a newly discovered coronavirus, according to the World Health Organization.

Many people infected with the COVID-19 virus can experience mild to moderate respiratory illness and recover without requiring special treatment.  Older people, and those with underlying medical problems like cardiovascular disease, diabetes, chronic respiratory disease, and cancer are more likely to develop serious illness.

At this time, there are no specific vaccines or treatments for COVID-19.

For up-to-date information regarding the novel coronavirus including number of cases in the United States, see:

• The California Department of Public Health website or
• Centers for Disease Control (CDC) website 

Social Distancing

Definition

Social distancing is a public health safety intervention used to reduce the likelihood of transmitting communicable disease. Social distancing involves minimizing exposure to infected individuals by avoiding large public gathering venues, adhering to spacing requirements in the workplace, and following proper personal hygiene practices.

Step 1.  Standard Strategies for Effective Social Distancing: 

Practice at All Times

The goal of social distancing is to limit exposure to infectious bacteria and viruses during a communicable disease outbreak. The following strategies may be useful in conducting social distancing:

Adhere to public health hygienic recommendations by washing your hands after touching commonly used items or coming into contact with someone who is sick.

• Stay home when sick.
  • Remain at home until fever has been gone for at least 24 hours without the use of fever-reducing medicines.
  • Seek immediate medical care if symptoms become more severe, e.g., high fever or difficulty breathing

• Use “respiratory etiquette”.
  • Cover cough with a tissue or sleeve. See CDC’s Cover Your Cough page.
  • Provide adequate supplies within easy reach, including tissues and no-touch trash cans.

• Wash hands frequently.
  • Encourage hand washing (at least 20 seconds with soap and water) by students and staff through education, scheduled time for handwashing, and the provision of adequate supplies.
  • Use alcohol-based hand sanitizer that contains at least 60% alcohol.

• Routinely clean frequently touched surfaces. Daily cleaning and disinfecting of high traffic areas.

• Avoid touching your face, nose, and mouth and avoid rubbing your eyes.

• Properly dispose of anything that comes in contact with your mouth such as tissues or plastic eating utensils.

• Students and staff who start to develop symptoms on site will immediately go home and should contact their own physician or health care provider depending upon level of discomfort and type of symptoms.

• For students using the college Student Health Centers for primary care, please call the Student Health Center for advice and referral for care. Wear a mask covering your nose, mouth and chin when out in public. Avoid coming in contact with individuals displaying symptoms of illness.

• Stay at least six feet from the nearest person when out in public. ​​

Step 2.  Notification of VCCCD Implementation of Social Distancing Protocol:  

Occurs Following Ventura County Public Health Notification of a Health Emergency based upon Confirmed Community Transmission of COVID-19 in Ventura County or Cases Occurring in Surrounding Counties

Notification

Implementation of the VCCCD Social Distancing Protocol will continue to be communicated to employees and students by the VCCCD based on recommendations of public health authorities and assessment of circumstances

    Classes and Work

• To the extent possible, maintain a minimum distance between people of at least six feet. Adjust work and classroom spaces as needed.

• Message and format consistent informational flyers and posters will be distributed for posting at all VCCCD sites.

• Classes have moved to web-based and/or distance learning modes to continue instruction. Employees and students will continue to be notified of changes in advance.

• Colleges have obtained blanket exception from the CCCCO to offer additional classes in an online format.

• Employees may be required to participate in an alternate work schedule or alternate work mode. This includes working from home remotely using phone and computer or staggering work shifts to reduce the number of employees on site. These actions may occur depending upon local circumstances and directives from public health authorities. VCCCD employees will be notified should implementation of alternate work schedules and/or modes be implemented.

• Employees with identified critical functions to maintain District/College operations will be provided technology and access for remote work as needed.

Closures

The colleges and District office have closed due to circumstances and recommendations or directives from public health authorities. Closures will continue to be communicated to students and employees on the VCCCD website.

• The consideration of closures of locations or services at locations (e.g. childcare centers, libraries) has been discussed among District and College leadership. This ensured that decisions were made in a consistent manner across all District locations evaluating similar criteria and communicating actions in a timely manner to all students and employees.

• Venues where large amounts of people may congregate have been closed. Information on cancellation of college events and closings of any specific services will be regularly updated on the VCCCD website.

• Individuals should consult public health entities for closings on any public or private venues in their area.

• The colleges and District office have closed to the public due to circumstances and recommendations or directives from public health authorities. Closures will continue to be communicated to students and employees on the VCCCD website.

Personal Protective Equipment

• Recommendations for wearing personal protective equipment (PPE) such as gloves or masks have been issued by public health authorities. If used correctly, PPE may limit some exposures; however, they should not take the place of other preventative interventions, such as proper hygiene practices.

Medical Countermeasures

Consult with a physician for recommendations on obtaining medical prophylaxis.

Immunocompromised and Other High Risk Individuals

Individuals with compromised immune systems, heart disease, pulmonary conditions, diabetes, and other medical conditions, are encouraged to consult with their personal physician to assess the safety of their workplace during an event that warrants social distancing. They can then work with their supervisor and Human Resources regarding required absences or accommodations.

Step 3.  Implementation of High Intensity Social Distancing Measures: 

Occurs Following Increased Community Transmission of COVID-19 Indicating a Growing Risk to the General Public and the Need for Additional Precautions to Contain Local Community Transmission.  These additional actions have been implemented:

• Communicate the implementation of high-intensity social distancing measures with faculty, staff, students and the community.

• Employees will be allowed to stay home if someone in their house is sick or school closures have occurred.

• Healthcare provider’s note will not be required for employees or students who are sick with acute respiratory illness to validate their illness or to return to work. Healthcare provider officers and medical facilities will be extremely busy and not able to provide such documentation in a timely way.

• Classes have been suspended and public areas or large gathering areas closed.

• Further expansion of alternative work schedules and modes to minimize the number of employees on site has occurred.

•  Events where people are in close contact with others for an extended period have been cancelled. Ventura County Public Health authorities has called for the cancellation of many different types of public events.

• Maximized actions to ensure continuity of education services through digital and distance learning options as feasible and appropriate.

• Provided alternative grading mechanisms including grades based upon work to date. CCCCO has provided these types of accommodations in past emergency situations requiring closures of colleges.

Campus Classes and Events

Question: Are my classes still taking place on campus?
Answer: the 2020 summer session will consist exclusively of online/virtual instruction classes. Information about the Fall semester will be posted as soon as it is available. 

Question: Are Moorpark College, Oxnard College, Ventura College, Ventura College East Campus, and the District Office still open?
Answer: No. Although classes are continuing online/virtually, our campuses and the District office are not open to students or the public. But our employees are still here to help you so please call or email us. 

Question: Is the Child Development Center closed?
Answer: Yes. The Child Development Centers on the Moorpark, Oxnard, and Ventura College campuses are closed at this time.

Question: What if I’ve never taken an online class before?
Answer: There are many resources and tutorials on how to use Canvas, the platform for online classes. Learn more here.

Question: Are there still events planned on campus?
Answer: No. All events have been canceled at this time. ​

Question: Will registration for fall classes continue?
Answer: Yes, Register through MyVCCCD. Please call our counseling or admissions offices for help, do not come to campus.

Question: I'm a Nursing student. What happens to my rotations and upcoming testing?
Answer: All nursing students are encouraged to contact their dean and faculty to receive the most up-to-date information. 

Question: I'm an International Student - how does this affect me?
Answer: SEVP has allowed our schools to move the F2F courses to online as a temporary measure, without penalty to F1 students. Students are allowed to travel as they would under normal circumstances, but they must be aware of the consequences of traveling. Travel restrictions are being implemented daily. We encourage international students to stay put until further notice especially if they are planning to continue their studies in the US. 

Student Services

Question: I'm feeling anxious and stressed about everything that's going on. With the Student Health Center no longer open on campus, can I still call them?
Answer: Yes. If you have medical questions or need mental health services, you can call your Student Health Centers. If you have a medical or mental health emergency, please call 911. Our Student Health Centers or other community resources can be reached at:

• Moorpark College: 805-378-1413
• Oxnard College: 805-678-5832
• Ventura College: 805-289-6346 ​
• Ventura County Behavioral Health Crisis Team: 866-998-2243
• Didi Hirsch 24-hour Suicide Hotline 877-727-4747
• USC Suzanne Dworak-Peck School of Social Work Tele-Mental Health
• Text "Courage" to 741741for FREE 24/7 for mental health support. 

Question: With campus and the libraries closed, what can I do to access the internet? ​
Answer: Comcast is offering two months of free internet to households with students participating in online classes. Click here to learn more. You can also call our campus libraries for additional tips.​

Question: What if I need help with an assignment or research paper?
Answer: Librarian services are still available. Contact them at:

• Moorpark College: 805-378-1450 
• Oxnard College: 805-678-5819
• Ventura College: 805-289-6482 

Question: Is my campus bookstore open?
Answer: All of our bookstores are closed to the general public, but you can shop online and enjoy free ground shipping on all orders. Visit your campus bookstore website

• Moorpark College Bookstore
• Oxnard College Bookstore
• Ventura College Bookstore

Question: Is tutoring still available?
Answer: All tutoring services are available online.
Visit your college website for more information

• Moorpark College Tutoring
• Oxnard College Tutoring
• Ventura College Tutoring

General Health Information

Question: Has there been an outbreak of COVID-19 at any of your campuses or offices?
Answer: Yes. However, our campuses and District Administrative Center have implemented strict COVID-19 protocols for students, faculty or staff who are coming on to campus. See the Healthy Return to Campus (link) for more information.

Question: How do I know if I’m sick and what should I do if I’m not feeling well?
Answer: If you’re not feeling well, please avoid public places and contact your primary care provider or clinic. If you begin feeling any flu-like symptoms (like a fever, cough, or shortness of breath), contact your local emergency room. Our Student Health Center is available for phone evaluations. Meanwhile, be sure to email your professor and keep them updated. It is generally advised that you not spend time in public spaces until you’ve gone at least 24 hours without a fever (and that 24 hours should also be without the help of any fever-reducing medication).

Employees and Student Workers 

Question: I’m a VCCCD employee and I’m 65+ years old and/or have underlying health issues (e.g., blood disorders, chronic kidney disease, asthma, chronic liver disease, compromised immune system, pregnancy in the last two weeks, metabolic disorders, heart disease, and other serious health conditions) that make me more susceptible to the coronavirus. Do I need to report to my office for work? 
Answer: No. In line with Governor Newsom’s March 15^th announcement, you should work with your supervisor regarding remote work options from home. You are not required to report to campus.

Question: If I'm working remotely, will I still get paid?
Answer: All employees (faculty, staff, student workers, and probationary and provisional employees), whether working on-site or working remotely from home, will continue to get paid for normal work hours throughout the duration of this situation. Details and work-plans will be communicated directly to you by your supervisor. 

Question: I’m a VCCCD employee with travel plans for work. Can I still go?
Answer: All non-essential travel has been canceled for now.

Resources

Question: How do I update my Emergency Alerts contact information?
Answer:

STUDENT

• Students may update their ALERTS information on the MyVCCCD portal
• Once you are in the portal, click the MyCollege tab then click on Maintain Emergency Alert Information.
• On the next screen, click on Maintain Emergency Alert Information and update your information

EMPLOYEES

• Employees may update their ALERTS information on the MyVCCCD portal
• Go to MyVCCCD portal
• Visit the Work Life tab – click on Personal Information.
• On the next screen, click on Maintain Emergency Alert Information and update your information

Question: Can I get FREE Internet?
Answer: We know that many students are challenged with finding the necessary tools that are needed in order to succeed with online classes. We understand that both Comcast and Spectrum are now offering free internet service for students who are not current customers. Visit their web page https://www.internetessentials.com/covid19 or call 1-844-488-8395 for more information

What else should I be doing?

1. Remember to keep an eye out for emails from faculty, the college or Ventura County Community College District (VCCCD).
2. Keep taking regular precautions to avoid getting sick. Wash your hands, avoid being around people who are sick, avoid touching your face, cough/sneeze into your arm, and wipe down regularly-touched objects and surfaces with disinfecting wipes and sprays.
3. For more information to follow at the Ventura County Public Health office and the VCCCD Alerts page.

If you’re not feeling well, please don't come to campus - contact your primary care provider or clinic. If you begin feeling any flu-like symptoms (like a fever, cough, or shortness of breath), contact your local emergency room. Student Health Centers are available for phone evaluations.

Be sure to email your professor and keep them updated. Please do not return to campus until you’ve gone at least 24 hours without a fever (and that 24 hours should also be without the help of any fever-reducing medication).

Public Health continues to recommend that the public do the following to protect themselves from all respiratory illnesses:

• Stay home when you are sick. Do not leave your home, except to get medical care. Do not visit public areas.
• Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, especially after going to the bathroom; before eating; and after blowing your nose, coughing, or sneezing.
• Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth with unwashed hands.
• Limit close contact, like kissing and sharing cups or utensils, with people who are sick.
• Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces using a regular household cleaning spray or wipe.
• Cover your cough or sneeze with a tissue, then throw the tissue in the trash.
• Wearing a mask may help prevent people from spreading illness to others and protect people around you.
• Practice physical distancing – stay 6 feet away from people.
• Get a flu immunization to prevent influenza if you have not done so this season.

For more information, please call Ventura County Public Health Communicable Diseases at (805) 981-5101.

CORONAVIRUS (COVID-19) HEALTH CARE AGENCY INFORMATION  For  general questions about COVID-19 visit www.vcemergency.com or join the County of Ventura on Facebook. You may also call 2-1-1. If you have questions about your symptoms or possible exposure to the virus, your primary care provider is the best person to help you. Please call your primary care clinic, unless you are experiencing life-threatening symptoms such as difficulty breathing. If you do not have a primary care provider, call the clinic or provider listed on your medical card if you have insurance. If you do not have insurance, click here to search for a clinic near you. If you are experiencing a medical emergency, call 9-1-1 or go to the nearest emergency room.

Español - Para preguntas generales sobre COVID-19, visite http://www.vcemergency.com/homepage-es o únase al Condado de Ventura en Facebook. También puede llamar al 2-1-1. Si tiene preguntas sobre sus síntomas o la posible exposición al virus, su proveedor de atención primaria es la mejor persona para ayudarlo. Llame a su clínica de atención primaria, a menos que tenga síntomas que pongan en peligro su vida, como dificultad para respirar. Si no tiene un proveedor de atención primaria, llame a la clínica o al proveedor que figura en su tarjeta médica si tiene seguro de salud. Si no tiene seguro de salud, haga clic aquí para buscar una clínica cerca de usted. Si tiene una emergencia médica, llame al 9-1-1 o vaya a la sala de emergencias más cercana.