Coronavirus CT: University of Hartford Implements Restrictions

WEST HARTFORD, CT — Students at the University of Hartford are facing tougher travel restrictions in the wake of the coronavirus pandemic, with four students placing themselves into isolation following their attendance at a large conference, from which several people have been confirmed with the virus.

Unlike several other colleges which are sending their students home for the remainder of the spring semester, the university said in a letter to its community on its website, "We are not currently planning to move our classes online but, like many universities, we are preparing for this possibility. We will conduct tests on Thursday, March 12, and Friday, March 13, with some classes in each school or college being taught online each day. Faculty will be communicating directly with students with more specific information. Again, this is an exercise to test our preparedness should there be a change in the future."

University policy currently prohibits official travel to Italy, Iran, China, and South Korea, the countries with a Level 3 Alert, and Japan, a Level 2 country. The policy reads, "Any student or employee who travels to a Level 2 or Level 3 nation must self-quarantine away from campus until 14 days from your date of return, which is consistent with CDC guidelines."

Domestically, "all non-essential University-sponsored travel has been suspended until further notice," according to the policy. "Out of an abundance of caution, we are preparing for a scenario in which we have to close campus for a period of time. Anyone leaving for Spring Break is encouraged to take anything they may need if they are unable to return to campus at the end of break."