Stockton University Takes Coronavirus Precautions

GALLOWAY, NJ — Stockton University is taking precautions to alleviate concerns about the novel coronavirus. The University has suspended some programs and trips to Italy, which has 1,694 confirmed cases, according to the nation's Civil Protection Authority.

Two students were participating in the Academic Programs Abroad (API) program in Florence, Italy, who will be returning. according to University spokesperson Diane D'Amico. Stockton also suspended a planned faculty and student spring-break trip to Italy.

Italy has the most coronavirus cases of any country outside of Asia. Coronavirus has killed 34 people in Italy, according to officials.

No one has tested positive yet in New Jersey, but one person is being tested for the illness. Read more: WATCH LIVE: New Probe Into Suspected Coronavirus Case In NJ

Stockton, meanwhile, has 20 students studying in nine countries this semester. The university is monitoring their status with their sponsoring programs. A few other spring-break trips are under review.

Globally, at least 85,000 people have been infected and 3,000 people have died from the new coronavirus which was first identified in Wuhan, China, reports say.

But the coronavirus is part of a large family of viruses. The virus usually only causes mild respiratory diseases, such as the common cold. Symptoms include fever, cough, and difficulty breathing, according to the county health department.

Stockton recommends the following precautions:

• 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.
• Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth with unwashed hands.
• Avoid close contact with people who are sick.
• Stay home from class and work if you are sick.
• Cover your coughs or sneezes with a tissue, not your hands, then throw it way, or use your upper shirt sleeve, completely covering your mouth and nose.
• Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces.
• Get a flu shot — it's not too late to be protected.

The University is in regular contact with the New Jersey Department of Health and will update the community as information becomes available.

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