Dear Carolina Community,
As you are all aware, COVID-19, also known as the coronavirus, continues to spread globally and throughout the United States. We are sharing new travel restrictions and guidance for students, faculty and staff so that we all can take responsible, proactive steps to help protect members of our campus community and mitigate the potential impact to our campus.
We know that this is a stressful time for many of you. For students, these restrictions may disrupt your educational opportunities and plans for this semester. For faculty and staff, we know that these restrictions will also impact your plans to teach, conduct scholarship and facilitate the important business of our University.
We did not come to these decisions lightly and did so with the health and well-being of our entire community in mind, while also following federal and state guidelines.
1-A: Travel Restrictions/Domestic
The University is restricting University-affiliated travel within the United States to locations where a state of emergency has been declared related to COVID-19 and coronavirus. In addition, we strongly discourage personal travel to these areas.
Given the rapidly changing nature of the virus, if you choose to travel to these affected areas you may be asked to do a 14-day self-quarantine off campus upon return.
1-B: Travel Restrictions/International
As a reminder, all University-affiliated travel to Level 3 countries as defined by the U.S. Department of State and U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention due to COVID-19 is prohibited. This currently includes China, South Korea, Iran and Italy.
In addition, the University is also restricting travel to Level 2 countries as defined by the CDC, which currently includes Japan.
Per recently revised CDC guidelines, any students, faculty or staff returning from Level 3 and 2 countries will be asked to self-quarantine for 14 days off campus effective immediately. These advisories are subject to change so please be mindful of all upcoming domestic and international travel. If you travel to a location that is increased to a Level 3 while you are there, you will be subject to a 14-day self-quarantine off campus.
2. Returning to Campus
Any students, faculty or staff who have arrived or will be returning from Level 3 and 2 countries should immediately contact Campus Health or their local health care provider and follow their instructions for evaluation. Students should reach out to the Dean of Students office for assistance with coursework and other matters.
Employees in a 14-day self-quarantine protocol should work with their supervisor to determine remote working options, and supervisors are encouraged to be flexible with remote working arrangements and use of sick leave.
We have established a hotline for those who have questions about these guidelines. This information portal will be open as of 10 a.m. on March 5. Please call 919-445-5000.
This is an evolving and fluid situation. We will continue to update you; please visit the University’s COVID-19 website for more information and campus updates.
Sincerely,
Kevin M. Guskiewicz
Chancellor
Robert A. Blouin
Executive Vice Chancellor and Provost