The number of cases of COVID-19 in Switzerland continues to grow. According to the FOPH, people over the age of 65 are especially at risk.

The latest update tells us that all those infected with the virus have been placed in isolation, and the public health authorities are contacting people who have been in close contact with those infected. See New Coronavirus on the Federal Office of Public Health website for more information.  Locally, the quarantine time for those who have entered into contact with someone with the virus has been reduced to five (5) days. All public schools remain open.

For those of you who read Italian, do read this article by Franco Denti, a doctor for the canton, where he specifically addresses young people. In the article, Dr. Denti writes: “I hope that in these circumstances, each and every one of you will act responsibly for yourselves and for the community in which you live. The latest studies show that young people play an important role in our efforts to contain the spread of the rapid infection of the coronavirus. Please do not underestimate this epidemic that is having a significant effect on our canton.”

As many of you know, the Lombardy region, along with 14 other provinces, in Northern Italy have  been designated as a red zone by the Italian government. People working regularly in Ticino may still cross the border for work, but we ask that students avoid any travel to Italy, even to Ponte Tresa, so as to reduce the chances of you coming into contact with the virus. This will help to keep all members of our community, especially those in a high risk group, safe. For the same reason, we ask that you login to SAFEY, and if you do travel, fill out the Independent Travel Registry form on Moodle. Remember, a completed form will be required to return to class after Academic Travel.

Academic Travel classes have begun, and most of our students from the Lombardy region are currently on campus in anticipation of courses next week. Any students who are currently in Lombardy or who are traveling and have concerns or questions should contact the Vice President and Dean of Academic Affairs before returning to campus.

More info at www.fus.edu/coronavirus.