The safety and well-being of Shippensburg University (SU) students, faculty and staff remains of utmost importance and the university is working collaboratively and earnestly to communicate the best information to help everyone remain informed and prepared regarding Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19).

Though not in our region, the Pennsylvania Department of Health has confirmed two presumed positive cases of Covid-19. We continue to monitor developments and are adjusting university safety and health protocols as advised by state and national health organizations.

The United States Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has provided travel guidance that advises against nonessential travel in four countries – China, Iran, South Korea, Italy, and suggests limits to travel in Japan. It is anticipated that more countries will be added to the list. Information is updated frequently on the CDC Travel Guidance page>.

As our community disperses for spring break, we want to remind everyone of the importance of taking steps to protect themselves from possible illness and travel-related challenges that could interfere with completing the spring semester.

Faculty and staff are encouraged to reconsider any personal international travel plans, or advise David Topper, chief human resources officer, of their planned itinerary.  Students are also encouraged to reconsider any personal international travel plans, or advise Donna Gross, dean of students, of their planned itinerary.  While these are individual decisions, all should be aware of the possibility of exposure at any point in travel that could result in potential quarantine, and that a country’s travel warning designations could change at any time.

As you may know, some Shippensburg University students are studying abroad this semester and remain with partner organizations that have strict protocols in place to ensure their risk is minimized. University leadership is in contact with the students in the Warning Level Three classification areas to ensure their well-being and individual needs are being met.

As a reminder of some prevention tips:

  • Get the flu shot
  • Avoid close contact with people who are sick.
  • Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth.
  • Stay home when you are sick.
  • Cover your cough or sneeze with a tissue, then throw the tissue in the trash.
  • Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces using a regular household cleaning spray or wipe.
  • Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, especially after going to the bathroom; before eating; and after blowing your nose, coughing, or sneezing.
  • If soap and water are not readily available, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol.

The latest information, a more comprehensive list of prevention tips, and resources can be found at  ship.edu/coronavirus and through SU Alert if the situation warrants.  We all share in the responsibility of minimizing the risk of exposure to our community, and thank you for your attention and cooperation as we work through this fluid situation.