Coronavirus (COVID-19) News and Updates

Updates from the CDC Updates from Iowa State University

LAST UPDATED May 28, 2020 (New information)

05-28-2020 Director's Message

Presumed case of COVID-19 reported at Ames Laboratory

It is important for all Ames Laboratory personnel to be informed that a presumed case of COVID-19 in an Ames Lab employee was reported.
 
The individual was presumed positive due to a close contact testing positive in the beginning of April. The individual developed only mild symptoms and was not tested. They have since recovered and are doing well. Ames Laboratory was notified Tuesday, May 26.
 
This individual has not been on site since March 14th, and has no immediate plans to return to Ames Laboratory. 
 
The individual's supervisor encouraged them to self-report once they were notified. We thank the individual for taking the appropriate actions, and encourage others to report COVID-19 illness (or related symptoms) to their supervisors and Occupational Medicine, in order to inform and protect others.
 
We know that our personnel value fact-driven and transparent information. Our priority has been to keep people as healthy and safe as possible, and our core pandemic planning teams both at the Laboratory and at Iowa State University have prepared for this outcome. Based on this preparation and the known facts of this report, in this instance we consider the risk of exposure to COVID-19 from this individual to other employees to be minimal.
 
In the event of subsequent cases, we do not intend to make continued announcements. In each case, individuals who are at increased risk of exposure will be notified in coordination with Occupational Medicine and local public health.
 
Personnel who believe they have COVID-19 or have had close contact with someone with COVID-19 are encouraged to contact their health care provider, follow their recommendations, and self-isolate themselves for 14 days while they monitor their health. Note that it is recommended that you call your doctor before going to the physician’s office. Finally, please inform Occupational Medicine of your concerns, they can be reached at 515-294-2056 or om@ameslab.gov. Do not return to work until you have been given permission to do so by your healthcare provider, local public health and Occupational Medicine.
 
We want to emphasize that the vast majority of people infected with COVID-19 will recover with mild symptoms; a relatively small fraction will require medical care. After an individual recovers, they can return to normal activity when a physician determines that it is safe for them to do so. We want to make sure that when we do return to work, we’re welcoming everyone back to our Lab community regardless of our individual health experiences.
 
Finally, please continue to follow the public health guidance to stay home when possible, avoid large gatherings, maintain social distancing, wear a face covering in public spaces, and wash your hands frequently and thoroughly. We want you, your families, and your colleagues to be safe.

LAST UPDATED May 6, 2020 (New information)

05-06-2020 Director's Message

Employee Survey for Returning to On-Site Operations

The vast majority of Ames Laboratory staff have been working either mostly or entirely from home for well more than a month. With the Laboratory’s COVID-19 transition recovery team planning for a phased recovery process to return to on-site operations, we would like to hear from you about the challenges you are facing during this global pandemic and your concerns regarding returning to the Laboratory.
 
For that reason, the Laboratory has created a brief survey with questions regarding your thoughts and concerns about continuing to work from home versus returning to work on site, any challenges (childcare, education, medical) you may continue to face because of the pandemic, and what resource needs have arisen during the work-from-home period.
 
We want your feedback, so please complete this survey at your earliest convenience, and no later than Monday, May 11. The more information that you share with us now about your concerns and needs, the better we will be able to successfully prepare for a return to on-site operations that addresses everyone’s safety and ability to perform at their best.
 
We will discuss the results of that survey and update personnel on the status of our recovery plans at a virtual All Hands Meeting via Webex scheduled for Thursday, May 14. There will be two sessions, at 9 a.m. and 2 p.m. Please join either session using the links below. Chief Operations Officer Steve Hamilton will lead the discussion, with assistance from ESH Manager Sean Whalen and Occupational Medicine Physician Margaret Evans.
 
Thursday, May 14, 2020 9:00 am | 1 hour | (UTC-05:00) Central Time (US & Canada)
Meeting number: 281 393 777
Password: work-safely
https://iastate.webex.com/iastate/j.php?MTID=mf6a5e513947e6c90c2b20c2fbe9802f7

Join by phone
+1-312-535-8110 United States Toll (Chicago)
+1-312-535-8110 United States Toll (Chicago)
Access code: 281 393 777
 
OR

Thursday, May 14, 2020 2:00 pm | 1 hour | (UTC-05:00) Central Time (US & Canada)
Meeting number: 281 732 072
Password: work-safely
https://iastate.webex.com/iastate/j.php?MTID=m6d056dc95a48bcd544049f89b2c09cf5

Join by phone
+1-312-535-8110 United States Toll (Chicago)
+1-312-535-8110 United States Toll (Chicago)
Access code: 281 732 072

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05-01-2020 Director's Message

Planning for Recovery

This week, State of Iowa Governor Kim Reynolds signed a new public health emergency declaration which continues until May 27, with a partial lifting of restrictions for some counties, including Story County. Also this week, Iowa State University President Wendy Wintersteen asked that the University as a whole begin to put their thoughts and energies into a return to campus for the Fall semester.
 
Simultaneously, Ames Laboratory leadership is working with the DOE and the other national laboratories to determine best practices for returning to work. As was discussed in the previous director’s message, our return to on-site operations will be a phased approach. While we have not identified a specific date to begin the return to on-site operations, the Lab’s transition recovery team is assessing several areas to ensure we’re ready to go when the time is right. 
 
The team advises a conservative timeline for a phased return to work on site, based on two ongoing risk factors:

  • Statewide, the number of positive COVID-19 cases continues to rise.
  • A significant number of our workforce commutes to Story County from a number of other surrounding counties, some of which are seeing a higher number of cases and remain under greater restrictions than Story County.

The team has also identified four operational standards which must be in place before personnel may begin returning to work on site:

  • A safe work environment with hygienic conditions and practices that seek to protect our employees from contracting the COVID-19 virus in the work environment, and the ability to maintain those conditions
  • A procedure for routine medical screening of on-site employees
  • Return-to-work training required for all, which explains operational and safety procedures related to COVID-19
  • Availability of cleaning and sanitization supplies

In phase 1 of recovery, we will activate an advance on-site team of custodial, maintenance, engineering, safety, and occupational medicine personnel to assess and ensure a safe and healthy environment for the return of groups of employees.
 
In phase 2 of recovery, research and operations leads will return to the Laboratory to prepare for the shift to fully on-site operations; research activities will resume in reduced or alternating work shifts, and construction projects will resume. All other employees will remain on work from home status.
 
In phase 3 of recovery, remaining work from home staff will return to on-site operations. This will take time and will not be completed in one mass movement, but in stages so proper social distancing measures can be employed. The execution of this phase will be accomplished through direct communication with Group Leaders, Directors, and Supervisors to ensure their teams understand expectations and timelines. 
 
These phases must be considered as flexible and reversible, to accommodate the status of supply chains; changes in status of the public health emergency; and changes in guidance from our contractor, our site office, and the Department of Energy. This flexible approach must also be followed by supervisors for individual employees, who may be dealing with ongoing childcare, senior care, medical, or educational issues because of the public health emergency.
 
Communication will be critical as the Lab works to return to normal on-site operations. We will conduct another virtual All Hands in early May and continue leveraging Director's Messages, Insider, and All Personnel emails to provide further details on the recovery transition, and to keep everyone informed as we embark on the execution of the phases. In the meantime, please continue to exercise responsible disease prevention protocols at home and on site. Let’s work patiently and safely together toward our goal.

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04-15-2020 Director's Message

COVID-19: Continuing Response and Recovery

As of Wednesday Ames Laboratory completes its first four weeks of maximized telework operations in response to the coronavirus pandemic. In the last month, our people have shown that we can meet a challenge head on, adapt rapidly, look out for one another, and keep our work moving forward. As Laboratory Director, I am pleased by our ability to cope with this challenge, and reassured that we will emerge from it a stronger organization.

The question of when we will emerge is foremost in everyone’s mind. We are all eager to regain a sense of normalcy, and to be fully present at our offices and laboratories. But for now, we must continue to exercise caution.

There are currently 1899 confirmed COVID-19 cases in the state of Iowa; the number in Story County (eight) remains low. However, the number of cases overall in the state is expected to peak over the next several weeks. Our continued responsible behavior to slow the spread of COVID-19 will have a direct impact on how well and when we can return to normal operations, both as a community and as a laboratory. While consistent, sustained effort under these circumstances is difficult, carelessness or a rush to return can have serious consequences for our families and colleagues.

In accordance with Governor Kim Reynolds’ proclamations and the guidance issued by the Iowa Department of Public Health, the measures we implemented throughout March will remain in place until at least April 30 to protect the health and safety of our personnel as well as the community at large, while allowing us to pursue our mission as a National Laboratory. Decisions about our operational status will continue to be based on guidance from public health authorities, Iowa State University, DOE, and our laboratory’s pandemic response team.

That said, our next steps as a Laboratory must be to plan for the safe, orderly return of our personnel back to on-site operations. That work has already started for laboratory leadership and the pandemic response team. In addition, a recovery team has been launched. Led by ESH and Emergency Manager Sean Whalen, this group will assess and implement the steps needed to ensure that the return to our site meets with public health guidance, and successfully and safely prepares all our operational and research groups.

This process will not be rapid; most likely, our return to on-site operations will entail several phases during which there will continue to be reduced numbers of employees and activities in the buildings. I urge you to be patient as we exercise our due diligence for everyone’s safety and health, and we gradually ramp back up to full occupancy.

Again, I want to thank all of our personnel for their efforts in the last month. The pandemic has been unparalleled in the Laboratory’s history, and your response to it has been calm, adaptable, and professional. It gives our leadership team great confidence that the return to on-site operations will be conducted in the same way.

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4-08-2020 Director's Message

Operational Updates

Adjustments related to COVID-19 for some operational units are listed here. The Laboratory has moved to an even smaller staffing footprint on site, and most of our departments are fully functioning 100% remotely. All departments may be contacted during business hours for assistance. If you need immediate on-site assistance please contact the Guards at 515-294-3483.
 
Staying connected in our new normal
 
Ames Laboratory is currently embarked on an experiment at a grand scale — remote work for almost all personnel. It’s been an adjustment for everyone, and we’re still getting settled into our new normal.

  • Laboratory leadership acknowledges the struggle our families may be having balancing work from home with issues such as childcare and remote classroom education. Supervisors should demonstrate flexibility and understanding while families adjust to these challenges.
  • This knowledge article in ServiceNow handles the basics of telework, plus links to resources for staying connected with your team and for professional development.
  • IT shares the details on connecting to Ames Laboratory resources with a Virtual Private Network (VPN) here.
  • Iowa State’s Information Technology Services (ITS) has redesigned the Remote Work website, linking to more than 30 articles about using available remote work and learning tools.

Managing Stress and Anxiety
 
We are undergoing a massive change in how we do business here at the Laboratory, and also an enormous shift in our everyday life nationally and globally as we cope with the COVID-19 pandemic. Feelings of stress and anxiety are a normal, human response to these rapid and profound changes. I urge you to be kind to yourself and others as we find our way in new routines. If you are struggling with stress and anxiety, be sure to seek support sooner rather than later.

  • Under ISU employee health insurance plans, out-of-pocket costs will be waived for telemedicine services for 90 days, effective March 16.
  • Members of the ISU WellBeing team are leading several weekly events during April and May for ISU employees; no registration is needed. A guided mindfulness practice is scheduled every Tuesday and Thursday (10-10:15 a.m.) via Zoom. A conversation on wellbeing during these challenging times is available every Wednesday (2:30-3 p.m.), via Webex.
  • When your anxiety has affected your ability to function, it is time to get help. The Employee Assistance Program’s professional counselors are available 24/7 at no cost to assist employees and their immediate family members by calling: 800-327-4692 or you can visit the EAP website. They are also available to help with child care assistance recommendations, elder care assistance, and financial concerns.

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04-02-2020 Director’s Message

Emphasizing health and safety – reducing on-site activities

As a National Laboratory, we make many decisions daily about our research and our operations based on collective scientific knowledge. Likewise, the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and our federal, state, and local governments are acting on the best scientific knowledge to date about slowing or halting the spread of COVID-19. As explained by epidemiologists at the CDC, the idea of slowing a virus' spread so that fewer people need to seek treatment at any given time is known as "flattening the curve."

Recommendations for the kinds of social distancing Iowa State University and the Laboratory are practicing right now—including telework, travel restrictions, remote academics, and minimal on-site staffing—are based on the scientific knowledge that researchers have acquired over decades of study and publication in the areas of infectious disease control and immunology.

With that science in mind, and with the health and safety of all Ames Laboratory personnel as our top priority, we will be further reducing our on-site activities.

Beginning Monday, April 6th we will:

  • Suspend construction activities
  • Reduce cryogen delivery to 1x per week
  • Reduce shipping and receiving activities to 2x per week. (Note: please consider placing on hold those purchases that aren't needed for the next 30 days.)
  • Suspend FES routine activities and maintenance
  • Maintain minimum staffing in Occupational Medicine and ES&H
  • Reduce custodial services

Theoretical and computational work must be performed at home.

Finish your current experiment and place your instruments in standby mode.

If you have not fully transitioned to work from home, please do so now.

We realize the Laboratory’s Maximum Telework condition and these additional actions present unique challenges to research activities, but these actions are being taken in consideration for everyone at the Laboratory, at ISU, and in our communities. Take advantage of the time off-site to perform other research-related tasks that need completing including: literature review, data analysis, papers and proposals, and group meetings and discussions. We will also be re-starting the scientific seminar series next Monday, and encourage everyone to participate.

I understand that this is a trying situation and patience under the circumstances is difficult. Yet the more completely we can conform to the CDC’s recommendations to slow and halt the pandemic, the sooner we will be able to return, fully and in good health, to the science we do best.

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03-20-2020 Director's Message

Iowa State University & Ames Laboratory COVID-19 Research Guidelines

We are in active discussions with Iowa State University and with DOE in order to provide consistent guidance that applies to research conducted in both Ames Laboratory space and ISU space.
 
Yesterday, Iowa State’s Vice President for Research, Sarah Nusser, issued a memo to researchers addressing the rapidly evolving COVID-19 pandemic. In tandem with the memo, the VPR office offered updated guidelines on its research FAQ page. In addition, Jo Anne Powell-Coffmann, Associate Dean for Research, College of Liberal Arts and Sciences, distributed a memo on Research Contingencies for LAS Departments. It provides additional information regarding research activities. Please take time to read the full text of both memos and familiarize yourself with the research contingency planning document.
 
What does this mean for Ames Laboratory researchers? Here is a brief recap, and some comments about relevance to Ames Lab researchers:

Iowa State University research is continuing, but research should be conducted differently to maximize social distancing. Research activities that can be performed from home, must be performed from home.
 
Researchers should work with their Division, Program, or Institute Director to make appropriate decisions on the operational status of their research activities. Please speak to your supervisor regarding work that requires access to the Laboratory and follow the requesting guidance in Jo Anne Powell-Coffmann’s memo. When you are at the Laboratory, please pay extra attention to safety considerations given the reduced environmental, health, and safety personnel at the Laboratory, and minimize your time at the Lab and within the community.
 
Practice social distancing at home, in the community, and in the Laboratory. The CDC recommends maintaining at least 6 feet of separation. It is also very important to keep your space clean and disinfected. We recommend that you disinfect your space when you arrive and before you depart.

All researchers should immediately begin developing contingency plans to prepare for curtailing all but the most essential on-campus research and creative activities. While Iowa State is not yet curtailing research at this level, contingency plans are critical to minimizing the impact of a disruption and to ease the process of restarting research.
 
Ames Lab leadership realizes that this has been a large undertaking in a very short period of time, and we appreciate how responsive our staff has been, seeking to balance their commitments to operations, safety, community health, and research.
 
Ames Laboratory has consolidated important operational information in this document.
 
Again, thank you for your consideration in this challenging time.

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03-18-2020 Director's Message

A Well-deserved Thank You

As was announced yesterday, all Ames Laboratory personnel who are able to work from home should now be doing so, or by no later than the end of business today. This maximized telework strategy was adopted by the Department of Energy, the National Laboratories, Iowa State University, and many businesses across the county by recommendation of the U.S. Centers for Disease Control, in order to mitigate the spread of COVID-19.
 
Executing the telework strategy quickly on such short notice was an enormous organizational task with many logistical details to attend to. All operational and research departments of the Lab were involved, and all of you performed admirably in responding to the urgency of the situation.
 
Thank you.
 
As Director, I greatly appreciate the quick response, the additional work hours, the remarkable teamwork, and especially the care and concern that Ames Laboratory employees have shown to this organization and to each other the past several weeks. I am deeply grateful for your assistance in moving the Laboratory mission forward during this difficult time.
 
I also understand that researchers are receiving conflicting guidance from phrases and terms such as “All employees who are able to work remotely, as determined by their supervisors, are to work remotely," and "maximized telework.” Many of us can perform our complete range of job functions from a remote location. There is a significant number of staff— for example experimental scientists— who cannot conduct their research from home. While these scientists can think, read and write papers, and develop proposal ideas, their science requires some activity at the Laboratory. Discussions are ongoing today, with more to follow, regarding clearer guidance from the Vice President for Research. This guidance is expected to be distributed tomorrow. In the meantime, please minimize your time at the Laboratory, maximize your social distancing, use disinfecting wipes on the items you touch, and pay extra attention to conducting work safely.
 
The next several weeks will also be a time of great challenge, both for the people keeping vital operational processes and research going from a remote location, and for those who remain on site, caring for and safeguarding our facilities and instruments. The temporary changes that we are executing would be difficult under the best of circumstances; we are doing so in the face of a great deal of uncertainty and almost hourly updates in response to a public health threat that is profoundly affecting other areas of our lives as well. With that in mind, I advise everyone to:

  • Take care of yourself, your family, and your coworkers.
  • Continue infection prevention measures at work and at home.
  • Remain flexible and adaptive while we find our new normal.
  • Stay in close contact with your supervisor.
  • Take advantage of numerous remote work resources from the Laboratory and the University.
  • Stay up to date with the most recent developments from the Laboratory and University.

As a Laboratory and as a community, we will get through this. Your actions up to this point have inspired confidence.

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03-17-2020

From a Director's Message delivered by Adam Schwartz

Yesterday, Secretary of Energy Dan Brouillette announced that the Department of Energy DOE will practice “social distancing” and transition to maximum telework flexibilities for employees across the DOE enterprise, including its Washington Headquarters, National Laboratories, and sites around the country. During this time, the Department will remain open and operational, and all mission essential functions will continue.

This morning, Iowa Governor Kim Reynolds issued a State of Public Health Disaster Emergency activating the public health response and recovery aspects of the State Disaster Emergency Plan effective at noon today. It takes significant steps to require social distancing and limit community spread of the virus by implementing temporary measures.

Also this morning, Iowa State President Wendy Wintersteen directed all divisions, colleges, departments, and units to accommodate flexible work arrangements to maintain university operations while maximizing social distancing— a CDC mitigation strategy to reduce the transmission of COVID-19 cases.

In line with these directions, Ames Lab is implementing a maximum telework posture. All Ames Laboratory personnel who are able to work from home should do so as soon as they are able, but no later than Wednesday, March 18. Yesterday, Ames Lab supervisors received guidance regarding flexible work schedules. If you haven’t already, please contact your manager to discuss your work schedule flexibility. We rely on each of you to exercise good judgment. We recognize that these restrictions will be challenging for some of our staff and we encourage you to discuss accommodations with your manager.

As the coronavirus situation evolves, so does our response and guidance. At the current time, there are no known cases of coronavirus in Story County, at Iowa State University, or at Ames Laboratory. Much of the health guidance remains the same:

  • If you don’t feel well, stay home and call your doctor if your symptoms worsen.
  • Minimize interactions with others and practice social distancing.
  • Meet virtually.
  • Suspend domestic travel. DOE and the University have issued guidance suspending all non-essential domestic travel, expanding its previous guidance on international travel.  Consult your manager if you think your trip is essential.

Leadership at Ames Laboratory is dedicated to the health and safety of all Ames Lab personnel. We continue to work alongside ISU and the DOE in the monitoring, preparing, planning, and communicating the latest information related to this pandemic. Thank you for your continued patience and understanding. I know that many of you also are dealing with personal challenges resulting from the current situation. By working together and helping one another, we will get through these trying times. As always, you may find the most recent information linked at the top of the employee dashboard, or directly on this page.

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03-13-2020

From a Director's Message delivered by Adam Schwartz

Preparing for Remote Work Options

The situation regarding the COVID-19 pandemic continues to change rapidly, and Ames Laboratory’s management team is working hard in partnership with Iowa State University and the DOE to stay ahead of the updates from health officials at the Iowa Department of Public Health (IDPH) and the U.S. Centers for Disease Control (CDC).

Our foremost consideration is for the safety and health of our staff and their families. While there are no presumptive cases at the Laboratory, University, or in Story County, we understand the Laboratory is an integral part of the community of Ames and surrounding counties. We anticipate that the large number of closure and cancellation announcements from colleges, school districts, businesses, and organizations will begin to impact our personnel and their families. 

These are extraordinary circumstances. Our employees are empowered to make appropriate and timely health care choices— read the University Human Resources FAQ with information and guidance to prioritize employee health and workplace safety while minimizing potential disruptions. For that reason, the decision to allow staff to work remotely was made following medical guidance that social distancing can help prevent the spread of the virus. We ask that our employees prepare for working from home.  


To prepare for remote work: 

  • Contact your supervisor. According to Iowa State University policy, employees wanting to work from home should contact their supervisor and receive authorization in advance before working from home. 

  • Work with your supervisor and other operational units of the Laboratory to make sure you have the needed equipment and permissions to work from home.

  • Find a link for information on Remote Work Resources on the Employee Dashboard.

  • Webex is a free video and audio conferencing tool. Find instructions here.

  • If you have questions about how to set up remote work or meetings, send a request for assistance to IT through Service Now.

  • If your duties are site-specific or you are unable to perform your work duties from home, contact your supervisor. The Laboratory is working on alternatives to address these unusual circumstances. 

  • Research units: contact your principal investigator for information on continuity of operations procedures.

Our common goal is to continue to operate, but in a mode that keeps the likelihood of disease transmission low. By doing so now, before the virus is widespread in our workplace and community, we have the opportunity to protect one another, our families, and communities.  While not every employee’s work scope allows for the option of working from home, the absence of those who do reduces the risk for all. 

This is a difficult time for everyone, both at work and at home. People are dealing with rapidly changing information, cancellations, and the frustrations and disappointments that come from unforeseen changes of plan. I urge you to demonstrate professionalism, flexibility and understanding as we navigate the coming weeks. If you feel overwhelmed, please remember the Employee Assistance Program’s professional counselors are available 24/7 at no cost to assist employees and their immediate family members by calling: 800-327-4692 or you can visit the EAP website. Occupational Medicine is available to answer questions and concerns and can be reached at 515-294-2056 or email (om@ameslab.gov).

As mentioned in previous messages, please stay informed through reliable sources. You will find the most recent Laboratory updates on our public health page, and updates to University announcements on their safety updates page, as well as their FAQ page. 

 

Remember these prevention measures to protect yourself & your family

  • Cover your nose and mouth with tissues when you cough or sneeze.

  • Wash your hands often with soap and water, especially after coughing or sneezing, and use alcohol-based hand sanitizers.

  • Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth to avoid spreading germs.

  • Improve your immune system by getting enough rest, exercising, and eating healthy.

  • Stay home if you are sick, and avoid close contact with those who are sick.

  • Instead of a handshake, use a wave or elbow bump to avoid spreading germs.

 

Stay home if you are sick

The Laboratory continues to emphasize this critical health directive from the CDC. To limit the potential for exposure to other people, if you have a fever greater than 100 degrees Fahrenheit and a cough, do not come to work. Take the following actions:

  • Notify your supervisor that you are ill and will not be able to work.

  • Isolate yourself to keep from potentially exposing other people.

  • Seek medical advice from your primary care medical provider (but please call ahead first).

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03-12-2020

From a Director's Message delivered by Adam Schwartz

Ames Laboratory operations: social distancing measures for COVID-19

As we announced in our director’s message yesterday evening, as part of the U.S. Centers for Disease Control recommendations to control and reduce the spread of COVID-19, Laboratory large group meetings, seminars, and other events will be postponed, or will move to an online format for the period of Monday March 16 through April 3. 

Social distancing measures in the workplace

Because the University has announced online education for a period of time through April 3, the Laboratory will also implement additional social distancing measures:

  • While at work and in public places, maintain six feet of distance between yourself and others.
  • Schedule face-to-face meetings for essential Laboratory or University business only. 
  • Reduce the number of attendees in meetings.
  • Hold meetings in larger rooms to provide greater social distancing space (at least 6 feet) between attendees.
  • Use Webex, phone, or email for meetings (resource list in following section). 
  • Postpone any planned conferences, meetings, or seminars, or move to an online format. 
  • Consider reducing or eliminating your use of commonly shared appliances, such as coffeepots, microwaves, refrigerators, and drinking fountains.

Resources for remote work and meetings

  • Find a link for information on Remote Work Resources on the Employee Dashboard.
  • Webex is a free video and audio conferencing tool. Find instructions here.
  • If you have questions about how to set up remote work or meetings, send a request for assistance to IT through Service Now.

Practice self-care

Today University Human Resources updated its FAQ, which answers many common questions about how the COVID-19 pandemic will affect Iowa State employees, and includes additional information about working remotely, managing student employees, hiring, and university child care centers. Please continue to practice self-care. These actions include:

  • Cover your nose and mouth with tissues when you cough or sneeze
  • Wash your hands often with soap and water, especially after coughing or sneezing, and use alcohol-based hand sanitizers
  • Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth to avoid spreading germs
  • Improve your immune system by getting enough rest, exercising, and eating healthy
  • Stay home if you are sick, and avoid close contact with those who are sick.
  • Instead of a handshake, use a wave or elbow bump to avoid spreading germs.
  • We realize this situation is causing concern, stress, and anxiety. The Employee Assistance Program’s professional counselors are available 24/7 at no cost to assist employees and their immediate family members by calling: 800-327-4692 or visit the EAP website.

Stay home if you are sick

The Laboratory continues to emphasize this critical health directive from the CDC. To limit the potential for exposure to other people, if you have a fever greater than 100 degrees Fahrenheit and a cough, do not come to work. Take the following actions:

  • Notify your supervisor that you are ill and will not be able to work
  • Isolate yourself to keep from potentially exposing other people
  • Seek medical advice from your primary care medical provider (but please call ahead first)

Thank you

We understand that under the current circumstances, a great deal is being asked of each and every one of you. Thank you for your extra efforts during this difficult time. As a team with common goals, let’s commit to communication, compassion, and flexibility while we work through these challenges. 

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03-12-2020

From a Message delivered by Sarah Nusser, Iowa State Vice President for Research

Over the past 24 hours, conversations concerning preparedness for COVID-19 escalation and prevention have been on-going. Many universities across the nation, Iowa State University included, are making concerted efforts to minimize large gatherings and events in an attempt to reduce the impact of the outbreak. In an effort to keep our community as safe as possible, we have made the difficult decision to cancel this year's Iowa State Research Day event, which was scheduled to take place March 24 and 25.

We do not make these decisions lightly, and we recognize how disappointing this news is to those who volunteered their time to assist with the event, planned to attend, or registered to present research posters and lightning talks. This decision was made in consultation with university leadership out of an abundance of caution to prioritize the health and safety of the entire campus community. 

Please note that while COVID-19 cases have increased in Iowa, there are no reported cases on the Iowa State campus, in Ames, or in Story County. The most current information about the university's response to the outbreak and answers to FAQs can be found here. 
 
Thank you for your continued patience and understanding as we navigate this rapidly evolving situation.

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From a Director's Message delivered by Adam Schwartz March 11

The World Health Organization (WHO) has declared COVID-19 a global pandemic. While cases have increased in Iowa, there are no reported cases on the Iowa State University campus, in Ames, or Story County.
 
Following Iowa State President Wendy Wintersteen’s announcement this afternoon, the University will move all classes online from Monday, March 23 through Friday, April 3, in order to minimize spread of the COVID-19 virus.
 
What does this mean for Ames Laboratory? Because the University has announced that it will remain open for business and continue normal daily operations to the extent possible, the Laboratory will also maintain normal business operations.

  • Hourly students and graduate students at the Laboratory should maintain their regularly scheduled work hours, or contact their supervisor if they have questions or concerns.
  • Additional guidance for supervisors and employees will be shared by the University tomorrow (Thursday).
  • Staff in the Center for Excellence in Learning and Teaching (CELT) and college online learning offices are available to assist faculty with migrating their class online. Resources also are available on the CELT website.

There is one key change we will make, to accommodate University and DOE recommendations to follow the U.S. Center for Disease Control’s (CDC) guidance on social distancing as a means to slow or reduce the spread of the illness. Laboratory large group meetings, seminars, and other events will be postponed, or will move to an online format for the period of Monday March 16 through April 3. More information will be forthcoming in a future Director’s Message.
 
The situation is dynamic and changes in policy could be announced on a daily basis; everyone’s patience is requested as we work to address immediate challenges and keep our University and Laboratory community safe. The University has stated that it will reassess the situation during the week of March 30. Until then, Laboratory leadership urges all personnel to follow the University’s Safety Updates and FAQ page for the most recent news on University announcements. You will find Laboratory-specific information on the Laboratory’s public health page.
 
We will continue to emphasize the public health recommendations of the CDC. If you begin experiencing symptoms of COVID-19 (fever, cough, and shortness of breath), contact your personal healthcare provider and tell them about your symptoms BEFORE you go to the clinic or office. Do not come to work if you are ill. If you become ill while at work, go home.

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From a Director's Message delivered by Adam Schwartz

ISU is working hard to communicate the latest information regarding COVID-19 with the entire campus population.  As part of the ISU community, Ames Lab is staying in sync with the university’s planning efforts while also remaining responsive to our DOE customer.  President Wintersteen’s messages along with mine are hopefully providing an avenue of communication that helps to keep everyone informed.  Here is some of the latest information:

Late yesterday, the Iowa Board of Regents released a statement indicating they have asked all Regents institutions to move as quickly as possible toward delivering instruction online, as a result of the COVID-19 outbreak.

Also yesterday, the Iowa Department of Public Health (IDPH) reported five additional presumptive positive cases of COVID-19, bringing the total number of cases in the state to thirteen. There are no reported cases of COVID-19 on Iowa State’s Campus, in Ames, or Story County.

On Monday, Iowa Governor Kim Reynolds signed a Proclamation of Disaster Emergency, which authorizes state agencies to utilize resources including personnel, equipment and facilities to perform activities necessary to prevent, contain and mitigate the effects of the COVID-19 virus.

Iowa State University and Ames Laboratory are taking the COVID-19 virus seriously, and preparing for future actions as outlined in Iowa State’s Emergency Operations Plan. Both the University and the Laboratory continue to base their decisions on input from medical experts at IDPH and the U.S. Centers for Disease Control (CDC).

Given the current and rapidly evolving situation, it’s important that we all work to protect ourselves and each other.  As part of these efforts, I encourage everyone to take note of the following: 

  • Stay attuned to future messaging and maintain communication with your supervisor for directions or updates
  • If you have personal travel scheduled soon and will be returning from an international or domestic area of concern, carefully evaluate those plans. You may need to conserve vacation days or sick leave if you are asked to self-quarantine and are not able to work from home.
  • Be part of the solution and protect others. If you have even mild symptoms of any type of illness, stay home until your symptoms subside.
  • The University has created an FAQ with information and guidance to prioritize employee health and workplace safety while minimizing potential disruptions.

Ames Laboratory leadership understands that there may be a certain level of uncertainty, both at work and at home, in response to this virus. We urge everyone to stop, think, and act carefully in regard to their own safety, as well as for their coworkers’ and families’ well-being. We are best equipped to respond to any situation when we work together and support each other.

As mentioned in previous messages, please stay informed through reliable sources. You will find the most recent Laboratory updates on our public health page, and updates to University announcements on their safety updates page, as well as their FAQ page. 

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03-09-2020

From a Director's Message delivered by Adam Schwartz

There are several important health and travel updates that we must share with all Laboratory personnel in regards to the spread of COVID-19. Current public health efforts are focused on both containing the spread of the virus and mitigating its potential impact. As part of that effort, Ames Laboratory is working closely with Iowa State University’s emergency management team. Our Chief Operations Officer, Steve Hamilton, has assembled a response team to coordinate with our Department of Energy and University stakeholders, as well as with state and local health authorities. In addition, Ames Laboratory Nursing Supervisor, Kori Grooms, will be monitoring, planning, and communicating updates on COVID-19.

We understand that the current situation may be disruptive to both personal and professional plans, as well as a source of frustration or anxiety. For that reason, it is extremely important that our staff stay informed through reliable sources. You will find the most recent Laboratory updates on our public health page. You will find the most recent updates to University announcements on their safety updates page, as well as their FAQ  page. 

COVID-19 cases reported in Iowa
Yesterday, the Iowa Department of Public Health (IDPH) announced three presumptive positive cases of COVID-19 in Iowa. All three cases are in Johnson County, and all are recovering in isolation at home.There are no reported cases of COVID-19 on Iowa State’s campus. IDPH does not recommend additional or special precautions for Iowans beyond the simple daily precautions to combat the flu including washing hands frequently, covering coughs and sneezes and staying home when ill.

DOE restrictions and guidance on travel
On Friday, March 7, the DOE issued travel restrictions and guidance:

  • Non-mission-essential international travel is suspended until further notice. 

  • No DOE-funded travel is authorized traveling or connecting to areas with a Department of State  Level 3 or 4 travel advisory. 

  • Anyone returning from or transitioning through a Level 4 area or country is strongly urged to self-quarantine for 14 days after returning to the U.S. You can read more about how to self-quarantine in this bulletin from the Iowa Department of Public Health.

At this time, DOE is not restricting domestic travel. However, the Office of Personnel Management is recommending that agencies also begin reducing non-essential domestic travel, as appropriate. For your convenience, DOE’s travel guidance will be posted on the Ames Lab COVID-19 update page here.

University restrictions and guidance on travel
Additionally, on Thursday, March 5, the Iowa Board of Regents directed all regent institutions including our contractor, Iowa State University, to suspend all university-sponsored travel for 30 days, effective immediately. Please note that this period could be extended as conditions change. 

The University encourages people departing for international travel for personal reasons during spring break and at other times to check the latest alerts on the Department of State and Centers for Disease Control (CDC) websites, and reconsider travel to affected regions. Ames Laboratory personnel expecting to leave on international travel for personal reasons should notify their supervisor. 

Reporting illness at Ames Laboratory
If you begin experiencing symptoms of COVID-19, contact your personal healthcare provider and tell them about your symptoms BEFORE you go to the clinic or office. Do not come to work if you are ill. If you become ill while at work, go home. Occupational Medicine is available to answer questions and concerns and can be reached at 515-294-2056 or email (om@ameslab.gov).

Symptoms of COVID-19:

  • Fever
  • Cough
  • Shortness of Breath

This is a rapidly evolving situation. While the information in this message is current as of today, we recommend you regularly monitor the Laboratory’s public health page. You can find the most recent updates to University announcements on their safety updates page and FAQ page.

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03-04-2020

From a Director's Message delivered by Adam Schwartz, 03-04-2020

On Friday, Feb. 28, Iowa State University President Wendy Wintersteen delivered a letter informing the campus community of recent updates to the spread of the 2019 Novel Coronavirus (COVID-19), and the additional precautions the university is taking in response to the situation. It is important to note that there have been no reported cases of COVID-19 on the Iowa State campus or in the state of Iowa, and our overall risk remains low. 

The safety and health of our employees is paramount. For that reason, Ames Laboratory is fully aligned with Iowa State’s efforts to monitor and manage the public health considerations of the spread of the virus.You can read more about those considerations here. We are also aligned with Department of Energy guidance and direction.

Additionally, Ames Laboratory is actively managing the emerging situation in partnership with local, state, and federal authorities. We want to emphasize the information shared by public health experts at these agencies, especially the measures that the U.S. Centers for Disease Control (CDC) advises everyone to take to prevent the spread of all respiratory viruses. 

  • Cover your nose and mouth with tissues when you cough or sneeze and throw the tissue in the trash after use.
  • Wash hands often with soap and water, especially after coughing or sneezing. Alcohol-based hand sanitizers are also effective.
  • Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth to avoid spreading germs.
  • Improve your immune system by getting enough rest (eight hours is ideal), exercising regularly, and eating healthy.
  • Stay home if you are sick and avoid close contact with sick people.

Because Iowa State and Ames Laboratory are active members of a global scientific community, travel is understandably a concern. Currently, travel to China, South Korea, and Italy is prohibited, in response to CDC warning - levels 3 and 4 (for parts of Northern Italy). 
There are currently no restrictions on conducting or attending meetings and conferences. If you do not feel comfortable traveling to a particular location, please speak with your manager, or contact travel@ameslab.gov. Additionally, if you’re planning to host a conference or meeting at the Laboratory please be attuned to those who are scheduled to attend and request anyone who has returned from those areas with current travel restrictions within the last 14 days to not attend.  

Another concern in our university and laboratory community is the possibility of social stigma toward Chinese or other Asian Americans because of fear and anxiety about COVID-19. Ames Laboratory values a diverse and inclusive workplace, and we consider stigmatizing behaviors to be contrary to those values. 

In order to keep Ames Laboratory personnel informed on the latest facts about the spread of the COVID-19, Communications has launched a public health internal news and updates page on the Ameslab.gov website. Its main sources of information will be Iowa State University, the Iowa Department of Public Health, and the CDC. Please check it frequently for updates.  Updates will also be distributed widely via email, Insider, and Director’s Messages and Updates.

Additional resources:

For health information about COVID-19: symptoms, transmission, and prevention

For updates from Iowa State University

For updates from the Iowa Department of Public Health