TO: Vice Presidents, Vice Provosts, Deans and Directors
FROM: Michael Lochhead and David Quigley
SUBJECT: Coronavirus Travel Restrictions
DATE: 2/6/2020
As you may know, the U.S. State Department and the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) have issued the highest travel advisories to U.S. citizens, warning them not to travel to China. The advisories are based on the widespread outbreak of the coronavirus, person-to-person transmission of the illness, limited access to medical care in China, and restrictions on travel in and around China.
Numerous commercial airlines have suspended or cancelled flights to and from China, making travel arrangements very difficult. In addition, the U.S. Public Health Service has implemented additional screening and quarantine requirements for any travelers coming into the United States from China.
Based on the guidelines from the CDC and U.S. State Department, Boston College–sponsored travel to mainland China for all students, staff, and faculty is prohibited until further notice, effective immediately. We will continue to monitor this situation closely, and will remove restrictions as soon as it is deemed safe to do so.
While we understand this may cause hardships and inconveniences for some on campus, we believe it is a necessary action to ensure the safety and wellbeing of the BC community.
Thank you for your understanding.
Michael Lochhead and David Quigley