March 6 Message to Students: Questions about Domestic Travel

To Case Western Reserve Students:

Because of the common themes and time-sensitivity of some of your questions, we are sending this broad message now before responding to individual inquiries.

For all travel that is not university sponsored:

After consultation with infectious disease experts and out of an abundance of caution, we made our request that members of the campus community register their spring break travel. The likelihood that any student would be required to self-isolate for 14 days is extremely low. We requested information so that our health professionals could offer geographic-specific advice and counsel if needed.

For personal travel to places where the university has prohibited sponsored domestic travel:

We encourage the following for 14 days upon return:

  1. Self-observation for fever, cough or difficulty breathing. Students who experience any symptoms should contact University Health Services at 216.368.2450, where a health professional will discuss your situation and provide guidance.
  2. Avoid sharing food or drink with others (e.g. eating or drinking from the same plates or containers).
  3. Avoid close contact with others—e.g. shaking hands, hugs, etc.

COVID-19-related developments affecting a student or students’ course participation:

University leaders are developing contingency plans to provide individual and/or broad alternatives (e.g. teaching provided online, assigned presentations, labs or other activities usually done in person and extension of the semester to allow completion of courses remotely).

We hope each of you has positive experiences during your spring break.

Lou Stark
Vice President for Student Affairs

Sara Lee, MD
Executive Director of Health and Counseling Services