The following message was emailed to the campus community on February 27, 2020.
Dear Santa Clara University community,
We have been monitoring the spread of the 2019 Novel Coronavirus (COVID-19) for several weeks. For now, the risk level within the United States continues to be low, but new cases are beginning to be reported in countries worldwide. While no cases have affected our SCU community, the situation is rapidly evolving. Because these developments include an outbreak in Northern Italy and the Centers for Disease Control’s Level 3 travel advisory for South Korea, we would like to update you on the latest information in these areas:
SCU Preparedness: The University is extensively and proactively planning in the event of a possible outbreak in our area. This includes various scenario preparations such as triage plans, possible quarantines and longer-term campus disruptions. We have activated our Santa Clara University Emergency Operations Center and the Influenza Task Force (ITF) who continuously monitor the developing situation regarding the COVID-19. These multi-disciplinary teams represent different functions across our campus and are working on robust and detailed emergency plans, with the goal of being prepared while keeping our campus safe. They continue to coordinate efforts and work closely with the Santa Clara County Public Health Department (SCCPHD) to get the latest in-depth guidance and information on this outbreak.
SCU Study Abroad: Our University is on the quarter system and has very few students studying abroad during the Winter/Spring terms, lessening impact. We currently do not have any students in China, South Korea, Singapore or Italy. Summer study abroad to China is suspended in keeping with the University International Travel Policy, and the students are being redirected to alternate programs.
Guidance for other SCU International Travelers: Our University International Travel Policy relies on expert advisories from the US Department of State and Centers for Disease Control in considering whether to alter travel plans. Consistent with our existing policies, the University has suspended all university-sponsored travel to countries with Level 3 or Level 4 advisories, including China. In keeping with University policy, no destinations with Level 1 or Level 2 advisories are suspended.
We are working closely with University programs planning to travel overseas during spring break including immersion trips and other planned travel. We have outlined specific additional guidelines for international travelers. Please visit our website for more details.
With the upcoming spring break, we strongly encourage members of the campus community who may be traveling internationally for personal reasons to stay informed and refer to the following resources for travel advice: CDC Travel Advisory Website, U.S. Department of State, International SOS COVID-19 Information.
You are encouraged to use caution when traveling to countries with Level 2 travel advisories and to reconsider personal travel to countries with Level 3 travel advisories. Travel restrictions can change without warning, and these changes could require a U.S.-based quarantine or even affect the timing of your reentry back to the United States.
Instructional continuity: The Academic Technology team, with input from colleagues in Academic Affairs and Faculty Development, has created a new instructional continuity website to share resources that can enable learning to continue in the event a class does not meet in person. At present, classes continue to meet as usual. Students will be notified of any changes. The website includes tools that may also be useful to faculty or students who need to self-quarantine as a precautionary measure.
Reminder that it is flu season: Remember the risk of contracting coronavirus is low but many people within the US are still contracting the flu. Please continue to take simple precautions to minimize the risk of contracting and spreading any respiratory viral illnesses. Please visit our website for more information.
We realize this is an uncertain time. As a Jesuit University, we are committed to inclusion, respect, caring for the whole person and for each other. We will continue to keep you informed as we prioritize the safety and well-being of our community.
Jeanne Rosenberger
Vice Provost for Student Life
John Ottoboni
Chief Operating Officer