DENVER -- The University of Denver has suspended its study abroad program and all students are in the process of returning to the U.S. in light of coronavirus concerns. Two students who were in Italy are currently under self-quarantine.
Conversations about the potential risks are taking place on college campuses as university officials take steps to protect students and staff. DU is holding daily conference calls to discuss the latest health updates with various departments, including campus safety.
"We've got a lot of people in proximity so we’re looking at those things in terms of large gatherings of people, classrooms, residence halls, dining facilities, and considering all the possibilities there of what can happen and how we need to respond," said Ken McConnellogue, Vice President of Communications for the University of Colorado.
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McConnellogue said the university has restricted travel to all countries under a Level 3 travel advisory. Students studying abroad in those countries have either returned home or they have been relocated.
"We can’t restrict where our students go on their Spring Break but certainly we can encourage them and talk to them about what the risks are," said McConnellogue.
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Students tell Denver7 that some of their professors have sent out messages saying that it's possible classes will be held remotely.
"I think they’re doing everything they possibly can, it’s just... how do you control something that really nobody knows how to control at this moment?" said Matthew Rumsey.
