Dear Marist students abroad,

As you may have heard, there has been an increase in the number of novel coronavirus cases in Northern Italy, clustered in several small towns in Lombardy, and one in Veneto. Italian authorities have introduced safety measures banning entry and exit from the affected towns. The Marist Florence Branch Campus is located in Tuscany, and is not affected by the Italian government’s current travel restrictions.

In addition to complying with the requirements and recommendations of the Italian government, Marist has added all areas of Lombardy and Veneto to the College’s current no-travel list. Please note that while Milan, the largest city in the Lombardy region and Venice, the largest city in Veneto, have not been included in the Italian government’s travel restriction, Marist considers both Lombardy and Veneto Provinces off-limits at this time.

As such, please do not plan any spring break or other independent travel to Milan, Venice, or other areas of Lombardy and Veneto until further notice.

Marist students abroad are reminded of the prudent steps recommended by the US Centers for Disease Control (CDC) to decrease the spread of all respiratory viruses: wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds – if soap and water are not available, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol content (and note hand sanitizers are not effective against all germs); avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth with unwashed hands; avoid close contact with people who are sick; 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; and do not share household items such as dishes, glasses, utensils, towels, and bedding without thorough washing/disinfecting.

In addition to these recommendations, students are encouraged to avoid close contact in crowded, public spaces, and to avoid close personal contact. Students are also reminded of the importance of developing and maintaining a strong immune system to help ward off viruses or other sickness. Please ensure that you are continuing to take care of yourself by eating well and getting adequate rest and sleep. Late nights, undue stress, excessive alcohol consumption, and poor nutrition can lead to increased risk for becoming ill from any cause.

We will continue to monitor the novel coronavirus though ongoing review of CDC, WHO, and other reports, and remain in close contact with local and international governmental organizations; educational affiliates in Italy and elsewhere; our professional networks; and the private sector.

Please let us know if you have any questions.

Best regards,

John Peters

Dr. John E. Peters

Dean, International Programs

Acting Dean, Marist Italy

Associate Professor, Economics

Marist College