How DMU will manage confirmed cases
It is vital that everyone is aware of how any confirmed cases of Covid-19 will be managed across the university.
Becoming aware of a positive test result
The university is made aware of positive cases via DMU Safe Trace reporting. It is imperative that any positive case is reported through the DMU Safe Trace form.
What is classed as an outbreak and how will this be managed at DMU?
The definition of an outbreak is two or more confirmed cases of Covid-19 among individuals associated in a specific area, with onset symptoms starting within 14 days.
If Public Health England (PHE) identifies an outbreak at the university, or if there is an increase in local cases, they will contact the university via the Executive Director of Student & Academic Services.
If the university becomes aware of two or more linked cases through DMU Safe Trace, or sees an increase in staff and students reporting Covid-19 cases again the Executive Director of Student and Academic Services will be informed.
Public Health England will advise on any actions required to help prevent the spread of the virus. DMU will respond to this advice to ensure the best possible safety for all our staff and students.
Should the advice fit within our current plans for room cleaning and business continuity the action will remain within this plan. If the advice requires further action the ‘Major Incident Plan’ will be enforced which enables the senior leadership at the university to respond to any outbreaks with a widespread response across the university.
DMU response framework
DMU has developed a framework that can be applied to several scenarios from university outbreaks to outbreaks in the local area, to ensure the safety of our entire DMU community.
Implement measures that follow current government guidelines to help prevent the spread of COVID-19.
Effective processes in place to respond to a confirmed COVID-19 case, including a working relationship with PHE and Leicester City Council.
Appropriate measures in place to identify and manage university situations including cleaning and closures.
Appropriate measures in place to identify and manage cases working with PHE.
Appropriate measures in place to support vulnerable members of the DMU community including, self-isolation support, access to food and support with mental health and wellbeing.
Ensuring students and staff are kept informed and up to date with government guidelines and university plans.
Communicating an outbreak
In the event of serious and/or multiple outbreaks, communications will be sent to all staff and students.
Students should try and avoid causing any unnecessary panic on social media, which could spread across the university and to family and friends at home.
Be assured, if wider communication becomes necessary, we will work with Leicester City Council.