According to the Center for Disease Control and Prevention, 53 cases of COVID-19 have currently been diagnosed in the United States, primarily in travelers from China and quarantined repatriates. No deaths have been reported in the United States, and COVID-19 is not recognized to be spreading in U.S. communities.

If sustained transmission in U.S. communities is identified, the U.S. response strategy will enhance implementation of actions to slow spread in communities. Implementation of basic precautions of infection control and prevention, including staying home when ill and practicing respiratory and hand hygiene will become increasingly important.

Currently, the U.S. government has only required self-isolation for 14 days for anyone entering the United States from mainland China and restricted travel into the United States by those who are not U.S. citizens or lawful permanent residents.

However, these provisions could be extended to other countries if the communal spread of COVID-19 expands significantly.

The situation continues to evolve rapidly. If the guidance from the U.S. government changes, Duke officials will communicate the changes to students, faculty, and staff.