Synopsis:
- The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) elevated Italy to Level 3, Avoid Non-Essential Travel. The Department of State also elevated Italy to Level 3, Reconsider Travel.
- Elevation to Level 3 is a significant “decision point” for the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign regarding study abroad in a country.
- Following the advice from the U.S. Government, the University strongly advises and encourages students to make plans to depart Italy. However, at this time, we will not require that students depart but may do so in the future.
This evening, the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) raised their warning for Italy to Level 3, Avoid Non-Essential Travel. The U.S. Department of State raised the travel advisory for Italy to Level 3, Reconsider Travel. Based on this guidance, the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign strongly advises students to depart Italy, returning to the U.S. or your home country. The University will not require your departure at this time, but may do so in the future as the situation evolves.
We understand that departing Italy at this time may affect your academic plans at Illinois. Your college and the campus administration will work closely with you to offer alternative options to maintain your academic progress this semester. The academic options and recommendations will vary by program and student. You may be able to complete your current studies through the current study abroad provider remotely or you may take courses through the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign.
We also realize that returning to campus may create possible challenges related to housing. University Housing will similarly assist you to find residential accommodations on campus.
This change in plans may cause unanticipated financial burdens. The tuition and fees you paid when entering the program this semester will not be adjusted in any way that may negatively affect you or your financial aid. Additionally, the University will be working with you to cover or reimburse reasonable costs related to your return travel. The Illinois sponsor of your program will work directly with your host program to mitigate, as much as possible, other logistic or financial issues that might be related to your departure.
More information in these areas will be forthcoming by direct email to you.
We encourage you to share with your emergency contacts and weigh this important decision carefully. In order to make necessary arrangements to accommodate your return, we will establish a deadline to inform us of your decision to either depart Italy or to voluntarily remain and continue your program. (Any option to remain is subject to partners continuing classroom learning.) We will confirm the deadline in a future email early next week.
We understand the disappointment and the challenges this situation brings. Study abroad educational experiences are life-long and life-changing. But our top priorities at this time are to take necessary steps to ensure your academic success and provide for your personal health and safety. This recommendation to depart Italy addresses both of these priorities.
If you have questions related to program plans, please contact the Illinois sponsor of your program. For academic questions, your college will be your first contact.
If you have an immediate concern related to well-being or safety, please contact safetyabroad@illinois.edu or call the University of Illinois Police Department at +1-217-300-2401.
Additional Health and Safety Updates Information for Your Review
Safety and Hygiene Precautions: Many of these actions are similar to the steps that every citizen should take in the U.S. to limit the spread of the flu.
- Maintain good hand and personal hygiene. Wash hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. Use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer if soap and water are not available.
- Avoid touching your mouth, nose, and eyes with unwashed hands.
- Cover your nose and mouth when coughing and sneezing with a tissue or sleeve.
- Dispose of tissues in a trashcan.
- Minimize contact with anyone showing signs of respiratory illness, especially in confined areas.
- Stay home when you are sick.
- If you experience any of the associated signs and symptoms (fever, cough, or difficulty breathing), and suspect you have been infected, contact your program staff and seek medical attention.
- Avoid unnecessary contact with animals and raw animal products.
- Be aware of, and comply with, the guidance of local governments and/or program staff as the situation develops. We encourage travelers to stay in contact with their local staff.
Some individuals particularly susceptible to the coronavirus. Accordingly, the DoS advises: “Because older adults and those with chronic medical conditions may be at higher risk for severe disease, people in these groups should discuss travel with a healthcare provider and consider postponing nonessential travel.” Those chronic conditions may include weakened immune systems or chronic respiratory issues. If either of those situations apply to you, please contact International Safety and Security.
Staying informed: We encourage students to: