Dear students,

As the scope and impact of the 2019 novel coronavirus (COVID-19) continues to be seen across the globe, we are reaching out with some information, and, on behalf of all of us in Student Affairs and here at Duke, to remind you that we are here for you.

In the past last month, many countries – including the United States — have issued the highest levels of travel restrictions and most commercial airlines have canceled flights to China. Duke has also put in place limitations on all university-funded travel to China until further notice, and has cancelled all summer programs planned within China including GEO and Duke Engage.

Since then, we have received numerous questions from our international students with concerns and questions about traveling outside the U.S., particularly during spring break next month. Travel policies are dynamic and will continue to evolve, so we encourage you to review university websites and trusted news sources.  We also want to share some guidance from experts closely monitoring the situation to help you make decisions and preparations.

Please read the information below, and, again, please keep in mind that the situation with 2019-nCoV is evolving rapidly. We will continue to share updates on changes that may impact you and your travel plans. You can also visit the Duke coronavirus response website for more information.

We recognize that this situation personally impacts many members of the Duke community, and that many of you are concerned about friends, family and loved ones around the world.  Know that your Duke community is thinking of you during this time. For additional individual guidance, please email dukereach@duke.edu to let us know how we can better support you.

Sincerely,

Mary Pat McMahon
Vice Provost/Vice President for Student Affairs

Travel Restrictions:

The U.S. State Department has restricted entry into the United States by any foreign national who has recently visited China, other than immediate family of U.S. citizens and permanent residents.  These individuals will not be permitted to enter the country until they can demonstrate they have been out of China for at least 14 days. In addition, any person returning to the U.S. directly from mainland China is now required to self-isolate for 14 days.

While 2019-nCoV has been confirmed in 28 countries as of Feb. 13, the U.S. State Department has not issued travel restrictions related to the outbreak for any other country. However, this could change quickly, so you should continue to monitor the U.S. State Department website for updates if you plan to travel outside the United States.

The Department of Homeland Security has also indicated it will take all necessary steps to regulate the travel of persons and aircraft coming into the country to facilitate the orderly medical screening and, where appropriate, quarantine of persons who enter the United States and who may have been exposed to 2019-nCoV.

Please be aware that visa entries into the United States are not guaranteed, so be sure to present the appropriate visa documentation at the U.S. port of entry and be prepared for additional scrutiny and possible delays. For more information, or if you have questions, visit the Duke Visa Services webpage.

Beyond the current situation, students should consult Duke’s normal travel policies which are governed by the Duke Global Travel Advisory Committee, which regularly assesses risks for international travel. The current list of restricted travel locations can be found at https://travel.duke.edu/restricted-regions-list.

Commercial Flights:

Travel may also be complicated due to the cancellation of flights by US and foreign commercial airlines, many of which have suspended flights to China through late April. In addition, only seven U.S. airports are currently receiving flights from China.

If you are considering travel outside the U.S. during spring break, regularly check airlines for the status of out-bound and in-bound flights given the dynamic nature of this situation.

Health Precautions:

Even if you are not traveling internationally, we encourage all students to follow healthy practices. Aside from the coronavirus, we are also in the height of flu and cold season.

It is not too late to get a flu shot at Student Health. The flu shot is the best way to prevent the flu during flu season, which typically lasts through March or April.

If you are traveling internationally, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends the following practices to reduce the risk of getting sick:

  • Avoid contact with sick people.
  • Discuss travel plans with your healthcare provider. Travelers with underlying health issues may be at risk for more severe disease.
  • Avoid animals (alive or dead), animal markets, and products that come from animals (such as uncooked meat).
  • Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, especially after going to the bathroom; before eating; and after coughing, sneezing or blowing your nose. If soap and water are not readily available, you can use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer that contains at least 60% alcohol. Always wash hands with soap and water if hands are visibly dirty.

If you are currently feeling unwell, we hope that you will make an appointment with Student Health.