The number of COVID-19 infections has risen in Rotterdam over the past weeks. More and more Rotterdam residents have been tested over the past two weeks, and an increasing number of infections is coming to light. According to GGD Rotterdam (Rotterdam Community Health Service), multiple Erasmus University Rotterdam (EUR) students have tested positive for COVID-19. From test and trace investigations by GGD, it appears that the infections have occurred in the private sphere.
We understand that you will be visiting family and friends in the summer holidays. You have earned this holiday more than ever. However, we all need to take our social responsibility.
The signals from GGD and the authorities are a ‘wake-up call’ for us all. That is why we would like to call on all of you to adhere to the RIVM guidelines in the coming period. Avoid busy places, give each other space and stay 1.5 metres away from others. Even if you only have mild symptoms, make sure you get tested. Because it’s through testing that we can stay on top of COVID-19.
Dutch measures against coronavirus
- Wash your hands with soap and water, then dry them thoroughly.
- Cough and sneeze into your elbow;
- Use paper tissues to blow your nose and discard them after use;
- Don’t shake hands with others;
- Stay 1.5 metres (2 arms lengths) away from other people;
Are you ill?
If you have symptoms of COVID-19, get tested as soon as possible and stay at home.
- Symptoms that may point to COVID-19 are: a stuffy or runny nose, sneezing, a sore throat, a mild cough, a sudden loss of smell or taste, a fever and shortness of breath. If you have one or more of these symptoms, get tested. Stay at home until you receive the results. Read more information about testing.
- If you have shortness of breath or fever above 38 degrees Celsius, call your doctor or the out-of-hours GP service (‘huisartsenpost’) immediately.
Avoid busy places
- Stay 1.5 metres (2 arms lengths) away from other people;
- Leave if you notice it is becoming difficult to keep a distance of 1.5 metres;
- Work from home if possible;
- Avoid peak hours.
In closing
We can only ensure that we keep COVID-19 infections under control if we all stick to the rules. We all want to be able to open the doors of our campuses again in Rotterdam and The Hague on 1 September 2020.
We hope that you continue to enjoy a good and healthy holiday.
Kind regards,
the Executive Board
Rutger Engels
Roelien Ritsema van Eck