What is the COVID-19 Academy?

An academy is a learning center with a special focus. The TSU COVID-19 Academy is a virtual place for information, for resources, and a place of training related to the COVID-19 Pandemic. The TSU COVID-19 Academy is a community resource for questions and answers to the pandemic related events. It is a place to learn what you need to successfully manage your life during this historic event.

 

What type of test does the government recommend for the coronavirus?

The CDC recommends test associated with measuring breathing functions which means collecting and testing an upper respiratory specimen. Web site resource

 

What is the coronavirus and what does it do?

Coronavirus is a upper respiratory virus that has been named COVID-19. It is referred to as “novel” because it is new. The World Health Organization and the CDC (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention) has identified the status of the disease as a “pandemic” because it has affected a large number of people world-wide (on the local, state, national, and international level). Web site resource

 

Who is most at risk for the coronavirus?

The pandemic poses a serious health risk to all people. COVID-19 causes mild to severe illness, however in adults age 65 years and older and people with other serious medical conditions (any age) the most severe (serious) illness occurs. People with chronic illnesses like chronic lung disease, diabetes, heart disease, extreme obesity, kidney disease and liver disease.  Web site resource

 

Are there any special cleaning procedures recommended to prevent the disease?

To keep from getting the disease a part of it is making sure to wash your hands. There is a lot of science behind preventing disease caused by viruses, and coronavirus is one of them.

For your home just use standard procedures. Cleaning your house with common household disinfectants such as Clorox wipes are enough. It is the same as each year during the cold and flu season. Be sure to clean areas that are handled a lot, like doorknobs, telephones, remote controls and bathroom surfaces. Web site resource

 

Can pets get coronavirus?

Right now there is no evidence that pets can get the virus. But treat your pets like you would other family members. Don’t let them interact with people outside of the home unnecessarily. Web site resource

 

How long will the social distancing last?

That is still being studied. No information is available for a confirmed time limit. There are many opinions on how long, but meanwhile we still maintain the recommended distance. Parents can contact their local school systems for the latest updates on information. Universities are monitoring the situations in each of their states to determine estimated return times. Employers should be keeping employees updated on potential return times, since every industry has different exposure rates.  Web site resource

 

How many cases are happening near me or where I go to school?

Information on cases is updated daily. States and cities are continually reporting cases and deaths. Numerous web sites exist with that information including this one:  Web site resource.

 

What are the latest travel warnings or restrictions?

Many people travel as a part of their jobs and are considered essential personnel, like truck drivers, train and bus drivers, and other transportation industries. There are currently no federal restrictions on business or personal travel, however commercial transportation is affected by COVID 19. Truck stops and rest areas are open and providing food and restrooms for domestic travelers.

While it is recommended that you do not travel, the federal government does give travel advisories and identifies levels of concern for international travel through the U.S. Department of State. These are color coded to identify levels of concern: Blue = normal travel; Yellow = exercise caution when traveling; Orange = travel not recommended; and Red= do nottravel. Web site resource 

The Transportation Security Administration provides information on air travel in the United States. TSA is requiring additional precautions in the U.S. but issues the latest information at their web site which includes allowing hand sanitizers up to 12 ounce volumes in carry on bags. Their site provides confirmed cases of TSA employees at the nation’s airports. Web site resource

 

What are recommended precautions if a person is identified as essential personnel because they work in a place such as a hospital, nursing home, warehouse, grocery store, gas station, child care center, bank or other public place?

1. Employers should pre-screen active employees for COVID-19 symptoms;
2. If you work there, self-monitor. Don’t go to work if you have symptoms;
3. Don’t share headsets or other objects used near your face with co-workers.
4. Wear a mask. Employees should wear a mask at all times.
5. Keep on practicing social distancing as your work duties allow. Stay safe and keep your clients and customers safe.
6. Disinfect and clean work surfaces. Be a part of cleaning your work areas and public areas where you are employed.

Web site resource

 

I am interested in finding out about apprenticeships in a new career field. Where can I find information on what is available and how to apply?

The State of Tennessee maintains a database of thousands of apprenticeship opportunities available in Tennessee through their Apprenticeship TN program. Apprenticeship TN is a statewide initiative powered by the Tennessee Workforce Development System (TWDS) developed to create a greater awareness of apprenticeship opportunities for employers and workers in every area of Tennessee. Information on the program can be found at Apprenticeship TN.

 

I am looking for a new job in the Nashville area. Where can I find a list of jobs that are available?

If you would like to find jobs in the Nashville area, you can find a current listing of available positions at Indeed.com. Indeed is the #1 job site in the world with over 250 million unique visitors every month. Indeed strives to put job seekers first, giving them free access to search for jobs, post resumes, and research companies.

You can also find updated job listings at jobs4tn.gov. Here the State of Tennessee maintains an updated listing of jobs available in the state, statistics on Tennessee employment, as well as assistance on filing for unemployment benefits if you qualify.

 

Does Tennessee State University have any job openings currently? Where would I be able to find them?

Tennessee State University maintains a listing of current job openings on its Human Resources website.
View current opportunities.