President Issues Update on Novel 2019 Coronavirus

Interim President Michael Bernstein has issued an update sharing guidance on the rapidly evolving coronavirus situation. His statement reads as follows:

In response to a steady flow of new information on travel-related public health risks from the Novel 2019 Coronavirus, we have been closely monitoring travel guidance provided by the CDC and United States Department of State. In adherence to the New York State Department of Health (NYSDOH) guidelines and in consultation with SUNY Administration, we would like to provide guidance to our campus community as it pertains to any travel plans, regardless of the purpose of that travel, including the forthcoming spring break.

Several countries identified by the CDC and the U. S. Department of State have received travel warnings (level 3) and travel alerts (level 2). Please note that any planned travel to these countries is not advised. Should Stony Brook University students, faculty or staff choose to ignore these guidelines, we have been advised that these travelers will be subject to a mandatory 14-day self-quarantine upon return to the United States. Specifically, according to the NYSDOH, “Students and faculty returning from currently impacted countries or regions of impacted countries will be required to self-quarantine at home for 14 days upon return.” If self-quarantine at home is not an option for a student, campus residences will work with the Suffolk County Department of Health Services and Department of Social Services to assist with following the appropriate quarantine protocols.

Self-quarantine means that you will have to stay home and monitor yourself for any potential signs of COVID-19 infection—coughing, fever, chest pain or, shortness of breath—for the duration of 14 days. If these symptoms occur, call your healthcare provider, first to alert them of your recent travel history and/or symptoms and seek care right away. You may return to normal activities after the 14-day period is complete and if you are free of symptoms; there is no formal medical clearance process.

Note that conditions in geographic areas can change at any time. Therefore, we strongly encourage all students, faculty and staff to check these regulatory websites regularly for the most updated information. You may sign up for real-time Travel Advisories and Alerts by accessing the “staying connected” resource on the U.S. Department of State website. And for more details and FAQs about U.S. Department of State safety and security information, please see travel.state.gov/travelsafely.

Also, please be reminded, that if you recently traveled internationally to these areas of concern and feel sick with fever, cough or trouble breathing, you should:

• Seek medical care right away. Call ahead and tell them about your travel and symptoms.
• Avoid contact with others. Stay home, except for seeking medical care.
• Avoid further travel until the illness resolves.
• Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue or your sleeve (not your hands) when coughing or sneezing.
• Wash hands often with soap and warm water for at least 20 seconds. If unavailable, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer.

For specific questions and information please contact the appropriate office:

Student related issues: studentaffairs@stonybrook.edu.

Academic related issues: provost@stonybrook.edu.

International Travel and immigration services: vis@stonybrook.edu.

Stony Brook University HR-related issues: hrs_info@stonybrook.edu

Stony Brook University Hospital HR-related issues: SBUHHR@stonybrookmedicine.edu

Long Island State Veterans Home HR-related issues: LISVH_HR@stonybrookmedicine.edu

New York residents can call the New York State Coronavirus Hotline at 1-888-364-3065, where experts can answer questions regarding the novel coronavirus. In addition, the NYS DOH has a dedicated website which was created as a resource with updated information for New Yorkers.

Stony Brook University is committed to the safety and wellbeing of our students, faculty and staff and to provide support and guidance in any way possible throughout this situation.

Stony Brook University Coronavirus Information Page