Updates and messages

TELECOMMUTING ARRANGEMENTS AND PAY PRACTICE GUIDELINES EXTENDED THROUGH APRIL 30

March 31, 2020

Dear colleagues,

We continue to take proactive measures and following national guidance, the University’s telecommuting and pay practice guidelines previously communicatedwill now be extended through April 30, 2020. Please continue to practice social distancing, support each other, and follow our FAQs for additional guidance.

Throughout these weeks, you have been exemplary of our ‘Canes spirit. To support you through these challenging times, I would like to highlight a variety of resources available.

• MyCareConnection – UHealth’s new virtual care platform – is now live and available only for employees and their family members of the University of Miami at no charge. Just use your Miami.edu email address, enter the code  Cane2020 and be sure to hit “apply” on the checkout screen. MyCareConnection is available 24/7, 365 days a year, where board-certified doctors and nurse practitioners can diagnose, recommend treatment, and prescribe medication. Providers also are available to evaluate COVID-19 symptoms. Though you may experience longer than usual wait times, there is an option to request a call back. Click here to access MyCareConnection.
• Virtual Town Halls – University of Miami leaders and medical experts from UHealth invite the University community to join virtual town hall meetings on Tuesday, March 31 (UHealth faculty and staff), and Wednesday, April 1 (Gables/Marine faculty and staff). Faculty, staff, students and their families are encouraged to submit questions ahead of the town hall and join via Zoom for a candid and productive conversation. For more information on attending a Virtual Town Hall, click here.
• Counseling Assistance for Employees – To help us through these unprecedented times, the Faculty & Staff Assistance Program has organized wellness webinars to help us better deal with these pressures. I encourage you to attend a webinar or visit the  FSAP Working from Home webpage to explore some helpful resources to support your well-being. To register for an upcoming webinar, click here. FSAP also offers consultation and referral services to employees seeking counseling, especially during this stressful time. For more information please contact FSAP at 305-284-6604 or visit  fsap.miami.edu.  Services are provided Monday through Friday, from 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. Employees may also choose to contact Carisk, UM’s mental health insurance plan, at 1-800-294-8642 (available 24/7) for referrals or to be directed to a covered treatment center. Note: The Department of Psychiatry, which offers telehealth sessions, is a covered provider.

Get the latest information on the University’s response, as well as links to resources and frequently asked questions at our dedicated website, coronavirus.miami.edu. For information specifically for the Medical Campus, please visit my.med.miami.edu.

Thank you for your continuous dedication and service to your teams during this difficult time. If you have any questions, please reach out to your manager or HR Partner.

Thank you.

Mary Harper Hagan
Vice President
Human Resources

Dear Students,

For many of you, this was your first week of online courses at the University of Miami. Similarly, it was the first time that many of your professors have taught in this virtual environment. We hope that everyone has been able to settle in to their new routines and support each other during this time.

Life is anything but normal right now, and it is too soon to know how the next few months will unfold. Our recent decisions to cancel ongoing study abroad programs, move classes online, and partially close campus housing are all necessary for the health and safety of the University community.  By limiting social interaction, we will help to slow the spread of COVID-19 and support our health systems nationwide. Particularly at this time, we want to stress the continued importance of preventative measures including physical distancing and proper handwashing, and we urge you to continue to check the University’s COVID-19 response website for the latest information.

Support Services
In addition to moving courses online, our support services, including the Counseling Center, still have resources available to our students. Please visit their website to learn about their current offerings available to you. Additionally, Student Health Service remains open to serve students in the area.

The Camner Center for Academic Resources continues to host virtual tutoring sessions and is adding a range of workshops to assist you with the shift to online learning. Additionally, your academic advisors will be reaching out to help you with course selection and to provide support as we look ahead to the Fall semester.

Resident Students
For resident students who have not returned to campus housing since the start of spring break, we are working on a plan to allow you to retrieve your belongings in a way that is safe for all members of the University community. You will receive more information at a later date.

Grading
The deans and Faculty Senate leadership have been discussing the issue of grades, both within UM and amongst our national colleagues.  There are many students, both undergraduate and graduate, law and medicine, some with financial aid that may be dependent on progression, or others who must maintain a specific GPA to continue enrollment in special programs. These factors, and others, were considered carefully in formulating a decision that required a great deal of thought and planning.

For the Spring 2020 semester only, undergraduate schools and colleges will allow students to opt-in to taking some or all of their courses for Credit/No Credit or they can continue with letter grades. Credit/No-credit is the University of Miami’s version of Pass/Fail; a grade of C or better is required to receive credit.  For any course in which a student wants to retain their letter grades, no action is necessary.

• This will allow undergraduate students to take any or all courses under this grading basis. Courses taken for CR/NC grades during Spring 2020 will count towards major, minors, cognates/general education, and degree requirements (subject to final Faculty Senate approval).
• CR/NC grades are not calculated into a student's GPA, so some students may not have a semester GPA for Spring 2020. Given this, honor rolls will not be in effect for Spring 2020. 
• If a student elects to take a course CR/NC, they will receive a CR if they earn a letter grade of A+ through C.  If they earn a letter grade of C- through F, they will receive a NC. 
• The limit on the number of courses that can be taken CR/NC in a single semester is suspended for the Spring 2020 semester.
• Undergraduate courses taken CR/NC in the Spring 2020 will not count towards the University’s maximum nine-credit hour limit on the total number of courses that can be counted towards a degree.
• The University of Miami will add a notation to the transcript key indicating the reason for the grade options for Spring 2020.
• Students must submit an online request to receive CR/NC instead of a letter grade for each course they choose; the online form will be available shortly on the Registrar’s website.  Students will have until 11:59 p.m. on May 8 to make this selection for each course they choose to take CR/NC.  Grades, transcripts, and other semester academic records will be posted by May 21, as opposed to the originally planned date of May 13.

Graduation
We share in your disappointment at the way that your time on campus this semester was cut short. For those graduating, we intentionally rescheduled our May ceremonies to December to allow you and your families the opportunity to participate in this important recognition of your academic achievements. We hope that you can join us, and we look forward to welcoming you and your loved ones back to campus once it is safe to do so.

Caring for Yourself and One Another
It is especially important to remember that ’Canes Care for ’Canes. By supporting one another during this unprecedented time, we will persevere and emerge as a stronger community, equipped with new skills and approaches to collaborating, meeting, and learning.

And caring for your fellow ’Canes also means caring for yourself. Many of you are back at home working through new dynamics and changes, in addition to shifting to online learning and continuing to be active in your co-curricular activities.

We want to thank all of you for your resiliency, patience, and flexibility.  We are in uncharted waters, and there will still be challenges ahead. Your health and safety are our priority, and your ability to learn and complete your education is at the forefront of our efforts.

If you have any feedback, please feel free to reach out to us at pwhitely@miami.edu or provost.office@miami.edu.  If you or someone you know is facing extreme challenges, we want to hear from you.

We are united as part of your Miami Hurricane family.

Jeffrey L. Duerk, Ph.D.
Executive Vice President for Academic Affairs and Provost

Patricia A. Whitely. Ed.D.
Vice President for Student Affairs

To the University of Miami Community:

The impact COVID-19 has had and will continue to have on our community—and the global economy—is unprecedented. Yet, even in the face of such disruption, we are fulfilling our mission of teaching, research, innovation, and service.

We should all be encouraged by the fact that this week our students were able to return to class fully online, thanks to the extraordinary efforts and teamwork of faculty and staff. Beyond adapting to a new reality for teaching and learning, our mission as a comprehensive research university with an academic health system compels us to play three important roles in the face of COVID-19.

Our first role is to care for our own community. With nearly 18,000 students and approximately 17,000 employees, we are responsible for prioritizing the health and safety of 35,000 people and their loved ones.

Our second role, carried out by the academic health system, is to provide health care to our surrounding community. We know our colleagues at UHealth are feeling the pressure acutely, as the number of confirmed cases continues to rise.

Our third role is as researchers, with involvement on the front lines of both care and innovation. As we speak, our scientists are hard at work developing the tools necessary to beat this pandemic, from diagnostics to drugs to vaccines.

During an event like this one, no news is not seen as good news. Quite the opposite—the absence of information feeds fear. We know you have questions and we want to answer them.

As we carry out our mission and embrace each of our roles, I am delighted to announce that next Tuesday and Wednesday, we will hold a series of virtual town hall meetings with the University community.

The University’s dedicated COVID-19 site, which can be found at coronavirus.miami.edu, is updated constantly and will continue to serve as the most up-to-date source of information regarding the University’s comprehensive response to the pandemic. Information specific to our medical community can be found at http://my.med.miami.edu.

Details on how to participate in our virtual town hall meetings will follow, including how you can submit questions you want us to address. We look forward to a candid and productive conversation.

Until then, stay safe and continue to do your part as we help our community through these challenging times.

We are one U.

To the University of Miami Community:

Earlier this evening, the City of Coral Gables issued a “safer at home” order, effective at 11:59 p.m. Wednesday, March 25, that requires residents and businesses to restrict non-essential activities.

Here is guidance regarding University operations:

The order does not impact online learning.

• All online classes will continue to meet as normal and course schedules will not change.
  
  

The order does not impact critical University operations, employee work arrangements, or research functions.

• Last week, the University implemented new Human Resources policies that are consistent with this city order. As Human Resources communicated last week, only critical operations that need to be performed on-site, certain student contact activities, and teaching-related support, should be performed on campus. All other functions should be performed from home whenever possible.
  
  

Students should continue to practice social distancing and limit mobility.

• The order strongly urges individuals to remain in their place of residence, with limited exceptions. The order does allow travel to grocery stories, pharmacies, banks, gas stations, and other operations critical to day-to-day activities. Individuals may engage in outdoor physical activities, as long as social distancing practices are observed.
• Dining Services will continue to provide take-out food service. The latest details regarding available dining options and hours of operations can be found at www.dineoncampus.com/miami.
  
  

The complete City of Coral Gables order can be found here.

To University of Miami Students and Families:

As the University of Miami continues its proactive and comprehensive response to the COVID-19 pandemic, we recognize the financial strain faced by many families during these unprecedented times. To help alleviate some of these concerns, the University is planning to issue prorated reimbursements for housing, meal plans, and parking in some form for any student who leaves campus.
 
The University will continue to provide students with academic instruction as well as an array of resources, all through online platforms, including tutoring, career counseling, student involvement opportunities, and counseling services.
 
Housing information

• Students who complete the housing check-out process by the March 25, 2020, deadline will have charges prorated as of that date and a credit issued to their student account. Students who do not complete the check-out process by March 25 or have not made alternate arrangements with Housing and Residential Life may have a proration date later than March 25. (Housing and Residential Life questions: housing@miami.edu)

 
Dining information

• Spring meal plan costs (minus Dining Dollar balances) will be prorated to March 25, 2020, or the last day of usage, whichever is later, and a credit will be issued to the student account. Dining Dollar balances will remain available for use through Oct. 15, 2020. Graduating seniors with Dining Dollar balances may be eligible for a prorated refund. (Dining questions: diningservices@miami.edu)

 
Parking information

• Student parking permit costs will be prorated to March 25, 2020, and a credit will be issued to the student account. Students whose vehicles remain on campus will not receive a credit/refund and those vehicles may continue to utilize on-campus parking without receiving a citation through the start of the Fall 2020 semester. (Parking questions: parking.gables@miami.edu)

 
Study abroad

• Students who participated in University of Miami study abroad programs should refer to official communications provided by the University’s Study Abroad office regarding any credits/refunds. (Study abroad questions: studyabroad@miami.edu)

 
Please note, the possibility of credits/refunds will be determined by a student’s individual financial aid circumstances. The Office of Student Accounts will review accounts for any outstanding balances before issuing a credit/refund.
 
Students who are facing extreme challenges are encouraged to reach out directly to the Division of Student Affairs at vpsa@miami.edu.

COVID-19: HR UPDATES

Dear colleagues,

For the past few weeks, all of us have been navigating unprecedented change at work and at home. We’ve had to pivot where, how, and when we work, while caring for our families, uncertain of how events will unfold.

I am not alone in my deep gratitude for the work all of you are doing. University leadership recognizes the challenges that each of you are facing, and we appreciate you.

As you know, we have required telecommuting arrangements to limit the number of people on our campuses to those who provide essential support to our patients, students and faculty. Whether reporting on campus or demonstrating flexibility through work at home solutions - we are all in this together. It is important that you respect your managers’ guidance and not report to campus if you are instructed to remain at home.

The health and well-being of our University community remains our top priority and our policies remain fluid as we move quickly to respond to national, state and local guidance. During times like these, some may experience worry and may need emotional support. Our Faculty and Staff Assistance Program (FSAP) is available and remains open at 305-284-6604 or visit fsap.miami.edu. For additional resources, please refer to the FAQs.

To support staff through these challenging times, we have communicated temporary policies in effect through April 17 that outline pay continuity provisions and enhanced sick options. These updates include guidance on telecommuting from home and are outlined in the updated FAQs.

Additionally, consistent with Miami Dade’s suspension of transit fares, UM payroll deductions for transit, tri-rail and parking will be suspended effective March 19 and until further notice. Hourly staff with deductions will see this change in their March 27 pay; exempt employees in their March month-end pay.

IMPORTANT

For employees who have transitioned to a remote work arrangement, please log in to Workday and complete the COVID-19 Telecommute Arrangement each week that you work from home. This mechanism will also allow us to retroactively provide any payments for the use of personal cell phones as appropriate. For assistance, please review the COVID-19 Telecommute Arrangement in Workday Tip Sheet.

Note: If you are working from home and are an hourly employee:

• In Workday, please continue to input your hours as you normally would.
• In Kronos, please contact your supervisor and/or timekeeper for alternative instructions.

 

If your only option while working from home is to use a personal computer, laptop, or other device, you are required to adhere to University practices and policies to maintain security on your device. Please see additional guidance and resources FAQs.

For assistance completing the COVID-19 Telecommute Arrangement in Workday or for other questions around COVID-19 temporary policies please contact your manager or HR Partner. For any technical issues including Workday, please email workday@miami.edu.

I have heard stories of the resilience of our ‘Canes family in areas across the University—from those who support our students and operations to those who are caring for our patients on the front line —I appreciate your dedication and commitment to the communities we serve.

Thank you for all you are doing to keep the University operating during these challenging times.

Mary Harper Hagan

Vice President

Human Resources

University of Miami President Julio Frenk welcomes students back from spring recess and thanks faculty and staff for their ongoing efforts, as classes resume fully online during the COVID-19 pandemic. Get the latest information on the University’s response, as well as links to resources and frequently asked questions at our dedicated website,http://coronavirus.miami.edu.

To the University of Miami Community:

Consistent with our ongoing efforts to provide you with the latest information, we are writing to notify you that a student from the University of Miami Coral Gables campus has tested positive for COVID-19. The student lives off campus, has been in self-isolation, and is in good condition.

Public health officials are directly contacting individuals known to have been in close contact with the student to provide information and guidance.

Out of respect for patient privacy and because this is a public health issue, there will not be any further information about individual cases.

Our best wishes have been extended to the student for a rapid recovery.

Your health and safety continue to be essential concerns for the University. By acting together—following the advice of public health experts to practice social distancing, avoid public spaces, limit movement, and exercise good hand hygiene—we can help slow the spread of the virus.

The University’s dedicated COVID-19 site, which can be found at coronavirus.miami.edu, is updated constantly and will continue to serve as the best and most up-to-date source for information regarding the University’s proactive and comprehensive response to the COVID-19 pandemic. Information specific to our medical community can be found at my.med.miami.edu.

Dear Deans and Faculty,

On Monday we launch a bold endeavor at the University of Miami with the full implementation of online learning. This transition has required hours of training, reworking of courses and syllabi, and translating your teaching into digital platforms—all accomplished in a single week. This is an extraordinary testament to your hard work and dedication. Your professionalism, creativity, enthusiasm, and willingness to engage in new experiments in pedagogy will forever, and indelibly, change the University of Miami. Thank you!

Most importantly, we have forged even stronger relationships with our partners across the University, including UMIT (and Instructional Technologies) and other areas in Business and Finance; the Division of Continuing and International Education, which has been on the forefront of online learning and provided tested models for us to follow; and the Division of Student Affairs, whose advocacy for students’ needs ensures we always put our students health, welfare, and UM experience first.

Undoubtedly there will be challenges ahead. While we are in uncharted waters, and the scale of conversion is unprecedented, every journey begins with that first dramatic new step. Some might say that this began when we started stepping up efforts to build a robust academic continuity infrastructure following Hurricane Irma. Few of us were thinking of a quickly spreading global pandemic; yet, hurricane or pandemic, the ramifications of our efforts will continue to ripple through not only higher education but all areas of our lives in unforeseen ways. We are a better and stronger institution as a result of your efforts.

I want to thank each of you for committing to the success of our students in completing their spring semester. We are resilient and committed. We are ’Canes.

Jeffrey L. Duerk, Ph.D.
Executive Vice President & Provost

Dear Graduating Student,

Our world is facing unprecedented challenges that we could not have predicted a few weeks ago. As you are aware, the University has made many difficult decisions in an effort to protect the health and safety of our campus community.

We recognize how important commencement is for you, your classmates, and loved ones. However, following guidance from state and federal agencies to suspend large events and promote social distancing due to COVID-19, undergraduate, graduate, and law May 2020 commencement ceremonies will be postponed until December 2020. 

• Friday, December 18, 2020 - Law and Graduate Ceremonies
• Saturday, December 19, 2020 - Undergraduate Ceremonies

The Miller School of Medicine will host a virtual commencement on Saturday, May 9, 2020, at 3 p.m. EST and will communicate those details when available.

We are so proud of the effort you have extended to complete your degree. We realize that the postponement of May commencement ceremonies is extremely disappointing, and we did not reach this decision lightly. It was made by keeping the health and safety of our campus community and your families and loved ones in mind. We are disappointed for you and disappointed with you. This is also our chance to recognize and thank you. We’re sorry - the world pandemic has created unprecedented times.

I want to assure you that, you will still earn your degree and be considered a graduate of the University of Miami upon completion of your academic requirements, regardless of whether or not you are able to attend your ceremony in December.

Please note, Fall 2020 candidates will still have their own ceremonies as previously scheduled for Thursday, December 17, 2020. Additionally, all Senior Send-Off events for this semester, including the Commencement Ball, have been canceled.

For students who may not be able to join in December, the Office of Commencement is working to provide options to receive your regalia and diploma cover as well as Stoles of Gratitude. More information will be available in the coming weeks at commencement.miami.edu and via e-mail.

Please make sure to provide these updates to your families.

Please know that your University is here to help as we navigate these difficult days. I am so proud of our University community, especially the Class of 2020, and look forward to keeping in touch with you.

Go 'Canes!

Dr. Patricia A. Whitely
Vice President for Student Affairs

To the University of Miami Community:

Consistent with our ongoing efforts to provide you with the latest information, we are writing to notify you that one member of the University of Miami medical campus community has tested positive for COVID-19. This person is in good condition and is self-isolating to prevent the spread of infection to others. Our best wishes have been extended to the individual for a rapid recovery.

The positive test results are considered presumptive, pending confirmation by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

We are following the recommended CDC and public health protocols to inform and provide guidance to those who have been in close contact with this individual during the period when they might have been contagious. Out of respect for patient privacy and because this is a public health issue, there will not be any further information about individual cases beyond notifications to our community.

We recognize that any positive test is likely to increase anxiety among the medical campus and University community. A positive test result—presumptive or confirmed—underscores the need for the University, the health system, and the medical school to continue a swift and comprehensive response to the COVID-19 outbreak:

• We have shifted to online instruction for all classes at all University of Miami campuses;
• We have established a policy on remote work for all employees;
• We have strongly encouraged students in on-campus housing to return to their permanent residence and will partially close on-campus housing beginning March 25;
• We continue to seek the best guidance from public health experts, including those at the University and our UHealth system;
• We are sanitizing all facilities and public spaces on a continuous basis.

UHealth and the Miller School of Medicine’s expert physicians continue to work with the Centers for Disease Control, establishing protocols for the protection of all who enter our hospitals, clinical spaces, and research and medical education areas, including:

• Screening all visitors at clinical entry points and over the phone, documenting their travel history and any symptoms they may currently be experiencing;
• Moving suspected patients immediately to an isolated room for further examination;
• Having dedicated isolation rooms and clinical staff for any presumptive and confirmed patients;
• Equipping clinical staff with approved and recommended personal protective equipment (PPE);
• Establishing a policy of remote work for non-clinical employees.

Your health and safety continue to be essential concerns for the University. By acting together—following the advice of public health experts to practice social distancing, avoiding public spaces, limiting movement, and exercising good hand hygiene—we can help slow the spread of the virus

The University’s dedicated COVID-19 site, which can be found at coronavirus.miami.edu, is updated constantly and will continue to serve as the best and most up-to-date source for information regarding the University’s response to the COVID-19 pandemic. Information specific to our medical community can be found at http://my.med.miami.edu. We will continue to provide regular updates.

Issued Tuesday, March 17, 2020

To the University of Miami Community,

The University of Miami leadership team, COVID-19 task force, and emergency management team continue to take proactive measures—following the guidance of public health and government agencies—to safeguard the health and safety of our community. As the COVID-19 outbreak continues to rapidly evolve, University leadership has made the following immediate decisions:

In accordance with public health guidance to reduce density on campus, and due to the likelihood of further travel restrictions in the coming days, the move to online instruction has been extended through the remainder of the spring semester, which will conclude on May 6. Also, we will implement partial closing of on-campus housing beginning March 25.

CLASSES

• Classes and labs will resume on March 23, but strictly in online/remote/distance learning environments through the remainder of the spring semester, which will conclude on May 6.
• Faculty should continue to prepare for online course delivery, which will begin on Monday, March 23. Additional resources to assist faculty members and students in continuing their teaching and learning activities with minimal disruption can be found on the academic and business continuity site and on coronavirus.miami.edu.

ON-CAMPUS HOUSING

• In accordance with public health guidance to reduce density on campus, and due to the likelihood of further travel restrictions in the coming days, we will implement partial closing of on-campus housing beginning March 25.
  • We strongly encourage all students to return to their permanent residence and not remain in on-campus housing.
  • Limited exceptions will be made for students unable to return home, or who cannot find housing elsewhere.
  • Although encouraged, students do not need to remove their personal belongings from their room immediately. Students will have until May 8 at 5 p.m. to return to campus to pick up their items and fully check out of their housing assignment.
  • Room and board costs will be pro-rated for the remainder of the semester for all students leaving campus. Additional information will be forthcoming.
  • Students who need extensions to pick up personal belongings or who need to remain in on-campus housing must complete an exemption request via the housing portal available in CaneLink no later than March 23 at noon.
  • We will make every effort to accommodate students and each case will receive individual attention. If you have questions, please contact housing@miami.edu.
• Most on-campus facilities will be closed. The Wellness Center at both the Coral Gables and medical campuses and the University Center pool will be closed. University Libraries will be closed but will provide online access to resources. The Counseling Center will not hold in-person appointments but will offer telemedicine. The University Center complex, including the Shalala Student Center, will have restricted access.

FOR FACULTY AND STAFF

• As communicated on Sunday, the University has activated temporary exceptions to policies to encourage social distancing and minimize the number of people on campus. In consultation with their supervisors, employees whose duties can be performed remotely are encouraged to work from home.
• We would like to reiterate that if you are sick, or think you are sick, please stay at home. Do not come to work and please contact your medical care provider.
• The Faculty Club dining facility will be closed.
• Campus buildings will be restricted. ’Cane Cards will be required to gain access to buildings, classrooms, and offices.

SPRING COMMENCEMENT

• The University continues to examine the spring commencement schedule and will communicate additional information soon.

The University’s dedicated COVID-19 site, which can be found at coronavirus.miami.edu, is updated constantly and will continue to serve as the best and most up-to-date source for information regarding the University’s response to the COVID-19 pandemic.

We recognize that these actions are disruptive, but they are guided by the recommendations of leading health officials and by our priority to safeguard the health and well-being of our community. We will continue to provide regular updates.

Dear Faculty,

We are continuously fine tuning tools and other resources to help you prepare for online course delivery when classes resume next week. We will continue to provide updates as needed to make sure you are aware of the latest information.

Visit the academic continuity guide often to register for in-person and online support. Please note: The Division of Continuing and International Education is offering scheduled drop-in hours in Allen Hall 202A from Monday, March 16 to Friday, March 20, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., to provide consultations covering the essentials of online teaching. For more information, contact Johnny Orr, Distance Learning Institute assistant director, at jxo483@miami.edu. Based on the input from the Office of the General Counsel, University Libraries, and the School of Communication, we are providing guidelines and information regarding copyright, online learning, and how to provide instructional materials to students.

Please remember the University's COVID-19 website remains your best source for all University coronavirus-related updates, including the March 14 notice from Human Resources on providing all staff with the opportunity to work remotely if at all possible, especially in light of Miami-Dade and Broward schools closures, and new policies on paid sick time.

The Office of the Provost will be operating with limited in-person staffing and is available via email at provost.office@miami.edu and via phone at 305-284-3356. Thank you all again for your commitment and readiness to ensure our students remain connected and learning through this difficult situation.

Jeffrey L. Duerk, Ph.D.
Executive Vice President & Provost

University of Miami President Julio Frenk updates the community on the University's response to the COVID-19 pandemic. Get the latest information on University messaging, resources, and frequently asked questions at our dedicated website, http://coronavirus.miami.edu.

UPDATE: HR POLICIES

Dear Gables and Marine campus colleagues (non-UHealth/MSOM),

On Friday, March 13, an email communication was distributed to all Gables and Marine campus leaders (non-UHealth/MSOM) regarding temporary exceptions to policies to encourage social distancing and minimize the number of people on campus in response to COVID-19. These are temporary measures, as we are continuously monitoring this public health crisis, and will evaluate changes as the situation arises. 

The health and well-being of our community remains our priority. 

We have asked managers to use their best judgment and encourage employees to work from home wherever possible and accommodate requests as outlined below while continuing to meet the critical needs of the operation.

Please review the following information carefully and speak with your manager about remote work options.

The following are guidelines for Coral Gables and Marine campus employees effective March 14 through April 4.

TELECOMMUTING OPTIONS

Friday, March 13 was a test of capability for a wide range of employees to work from home. To evaluate our efforts, there will be a survey emailed Monday, March 16 to all Coral Gables and Marine campus employees asking for feedback. It is critical to have your participation in this survey regardless of whether you worked from home or worked from your regular office space. The information will allow us to plan and prepare for potential disruptions due to COVID-19.

Employees may be eligible for a work-from-home arrangement if job duties are not required to be performed on site, do not directly provide on-site support to students, and can be performed remotely with minimal disruption. There are many tools that can be used in assessing whether work can be performed from home, the list of remote access tools available on the remote access technologies website may be helpful.

Note: All work-from-home arrangements require a manager’s advance approval.

Once it is determined that job duties can be performed from home, managers were advised to prioritize in assigning work-from-home arrangements. 

CDC guidelines on individuals most vulnerable:

Employees who fall into one of the high-risk groups as identified by the CDC and have notified their managers that they have an underlying chronic medical condition that makes them especially vulnerable to the COVID-19 virus should be considered a priority in accommodating a work-from-home arrangement, wherever feasible. If a work from home arrangement is not possible, employees in this category will be eligible to use accrued paid time (sick leave/vacation or floating holidays) so that they may self-isolate at home to reduce risk. Employees in this category may be required to provide medical documentation.

School or Daycare Closure:

Employees unable to come to work due to a COVID-19 daycare or school closure that requires them to be home with their child may work remotely if operationally feasible; if remote work is not operationally feasible, employees may use accrued paid leave time (sick leave/vacation or floating days) during this period.

Employees may not bring children or any relatives to work with them, particularly during this time. 

Rotational Options:

Once the above priorities have been considered, departments are encouraged to implement broader measures to foster work-from-home arrangements that minimize the number of employees on campus while fulfilling critical operations. This may include rotating staff working from home and some remaining on site, essentially a Team A and Team B approach.

PAID SICK TIME  

Our priority is to ensure the health and safety of the University community and encourage all those who are ill, or caring for those who are ill, to remain at home. In that spirit, we are implementing temporary measures to enable employees affected by COVID-19 to focus on getting well without concern of losing pay.

• Employees unable to work due to their own or their family member’s COVID-19 symptoms should remain at home and utilize sick time. If accrued sick time has been exhausted, staff will be eligible to borrow from future sick time not to exceed 21 business days (or up to 168 hours) during this period.
• Temporary or per diem employees unable to work due to their own COVID-19 symptoms who have provided appropriate medical documentation, will be provided paid administrative leave for a period of up to 2 weeks equal to their normal work schedule.

Travel Restrictions:

Employees currently returning from the affected countries identified by the CDC, are required to remain at home in self-isolation for 14-days on administrative paid leave. Employees are required to contact Infection Control at (786) 427-5018 to report their return from travel.

If an employee chooses to travel to one of these countries after the latest set of restrictions published on March 11, they will still be required to self-isolate upon return but will need to use their own accrued paid time off to remain in pay status. We strongly discourage all international travel and domestic travel that requires any form of mass transportation, except for local mass transit.

All employees should continue to take preventive actions during this time to avoid the spread of the virus. For continuous updates on COVID-19, please refer to the University’s dedicated COVID-19 site ( coronavirus.miami.edu) for complete, up-to-date guidance on campus events and meetings. 

Please continue to work with your supervisor and leaders as we monitor COVID-19 and the related public health guidelines. For additional assistance, please reach out to your manager or HR partner. 

Thank you for all that you continue to do as we work to care for our families, staff, faculty, and the broader UM community.

Mary Harper Hagan
Vice President
Human Resources

Dear Faculty,

The COVID-19 pandemic is disrupting our day-to-day lives in many consequential and unexpected ways. But even in the face of this evolving threat, I have been heartened over the past couple of days as the University community has come together and worked to ensure that our core functions—teaching and learning, research and innovation, and patient care—thrive at the U.

While we are concerned with the uncertainty of how this outbreak will impact us, I am convinced the work we do at the University of Miami is more important than ever. I am truly grateful for your continued focus, creativity, and patience in the face of these challenges. I want to thank academic and administrative teams across the university for their strong leadership and decisive and tempered responses.

The steps we are taking to ensure our students can continue to pursue their education and academic goals will require all of us to adapt quickly to new ways to deliver instruction and present course work. At the same time, more than hardware and software, our students will need your understanding and flexibility. We must recognize that their very way of life as college students has been completely disrupted, and they will look to their teachers and advisors for support and guidance. Your enthusiasm to try new teaching techniques will be met by their embrace of fresh pedagogies. The students will look to us as mentors and role models, they will read our verbal and non-verbal cues, and their emotional state will be amplified by what they see in us. Now is the time for us to be renewed and resilient: a common theme among ‘Canes.

We are also providing expanded guidelines and resources to our research enterprise, which, working hand in hand with our clinical faculty, are on the frontlines of providing innovative solutions to challenges like COVID-19.

Next week provides a vital window of opportunity for the institution to launch a new and demanding chapter in our history. Thanks to our previous experience preparing for and responding to hurricanes in South Florida, we have benefited from having actually tested emergency operation plans that allow for business continuation with limited interruptions. Many schools and colleges had been developing or recently completed their academic continuity plans. Well done! Few of us expected we would have the chance to test them so quickly. I encourage you to work closely with your colleagues at the U and across the world to learn valuable lessons and best practices in this new living and learning environment.

You will receive more instructions on course preparation and training when you return to campus next week. Remember to visit our dedicated COVID-19 website for the latest information at coronavirus.miami.edu.

There is still so much we don’t know about how the COVID-19 pandemic will play out, but I am sure we will get through this together. I’m proud and amazed at our adaptability. From the bottom of my heart—thank you!

Jeffrey L. Duerk, Ph.D.
Executive Vice President & Provost

Issued Thursday, March 12, 2020

To the University of Miami Community,

The University of Miami leadership team, dedicated COVID-19 task force, and emergency management team have been closely monitoring the spread of the coronavirus outbreak while aggressively preparing for contingencies around this rapidly evolving situation. The health and well-being of our community remain our highest priorities.

Over the past 24 hours, the World Health Organization declared the coronavirus outbreak a global pandemic, while Miami-Dade County recorded its first confirmed case and declared a state of emergency. Given these unprecedented circumstances, and following the guidance from Gov. Ron DeSantis, state agencies, and public health officials yesterday, University leadership has made the following immediate decisions:

Spring break has been extended through March 22. Classes will resume on March 23, but strictly in online/remote/distance learning environments through at least April 4.

CLASSES

• Spring break for students has been extended through next week.
• The spring semester will resume on Monday, March 23; however, classes will be provided strictly in online/remote/distance learning environments through at least Saturday, April 4.
• We will continue to monitor the COVID-19 situation and will make a future decision regarding when in-person instruction may resume.
• Faculty should use this time to prepare for online course delivery, which will begin on Monday, March 23. The University has launched an academic and business continuity site to assist faculty members and students in continuing their teaching and learning activities with minimal disruption.

ON-CAMPUS HOUSING, DINING, AND ACTIVITIES

• Residential colleges and designated dining facilities will remain open during this time, based on demand. However, students should consider whether their campus or permanent residence is the safest option during this time.
• Any student who has visited China, France, Germany, Iran, Italy, Japan, South Korea, or Spain is not permitted to return to campus until they have completed a mandatory 14-day self-quarantine period. This remains consistent with earlier guidance.
• Effective Monday, March 16, outside guests will not be permitted inside residential colleges.
• University Libraries, the Shalala Student Center, the Herbert Wellness Center, Student Health Service, and the Counseling Center will remain open.
• The University’s housekeeping services have increased the frequency and depth of cleaning and disinfection in all campus facilities. In addition, the University has placed additional hand-sanitizing stations throughout all campuses.

FOR FACULTY AND STAFF

• Outside of course instruction, all University operations will continue as normal, and faculty and staff are expected to maintain their normal work schedules and activities. This decision is consistent with guidance from public health agencies.
• If you or a member of your household falls into one of the high-risk groups as identified by the CDC, such that you may be advised by a medical professional not to come to work, please contact Human Resources Management.
• Faculty and staff are encouraged to practice social distancing and cough and sneeze etiquette, as well as follow CDC recommendations for handwashing and the use of hand sanitizer.

EVENTS AND ATHLETICS COMPETITIONS

• Effective Sunday, March 15, through at least Tuesday, March 31, all campus events or meetings with 50 of more attendees, including external events, are canceled, with limited exceptions.
• Home athletics competitions will continue but without fans. This decision follows the NCAA decision yesterday to conduct the men’s and women’s basketball tournaments without fans.
• Please refer to the University’s dedicated COVID-19 site for complete, up-to-date guidance on campus events and meetings.

All of the measures outlined above are being done to reduce the potential for the spread of the coronavirus and are in the interest of the safety of our University community.

The University has launched an expanded COVID-19 site with up-to-date guidance, advisories, and links to resources at coronavirus.miami.edu.

The University has allocated funds and secured the necessary supplies and materials to ensure the continuity of operations and is implementing numerous measures to maintain a safe campus environment. Our dedicated COVID-19 task force, which has been meeting since January, continues to work diligently on this unprecedented situation.

We recognize that these actions are disruptive, but they are guided by the recommendations of leading health officials and by our priority to safeguard the health and well-being of our community. We will continue to provide regular updates.

Issued Wednesday, March 11, 2020

To the University of Miami Community,

We are writing to keep you updated on new developments in our response to the global outbreak of coronavirus disease (COVID-19). While there remains a high level of uncertainty, it is absolutely clear that we, along with other universities, have a responsibility to institute new mitigation practices. We recognize that these actions may be disruptive, but our actions are guided by the recommendations of leading health officials and by our priority to safeguard the health and wellbeing of our community.

This email contains critical information and updates. Please take time to review it in its entirety.

1. Classes will resume as scheduled on all University campuses on Monday, March 16.

2. We are curtailing large University events and meetings, at least until March 31.

• This policy does not pertain to classes or in-person academic instruction. (Additional information regarding classes can be found below.)
• Effective Sunday, March 15, through Tuesday, March 31, all campus events or meetings with 50 of more attendees, including external events, are canceled, with the following exceptions:
  • University athletics events will follow NCAA, ACC, and State of Florida guidelines. At this time no changes have been made to scheduled athletics events.
  • Election polling on campus will continue. The Florida primary is scheduled for March 17.
• Additional information on events occurring after April 1 will be communicated no later than March 25.
• At this time, commencement activities to be held May 7, 8, and 9, will proceed as scheduled. Any changes to that schedule will be announced by April 15.

3. We are preparing for the possibility of moving classes online, if necessary.

• At this time, we are in alignment with current public health recommendations, which do not warrant a suspension of on-site learning at our campuses.
• We are working with deans and faculty members to prepare for the possibility of remote and virtual instruction for some (or possibly all) courses. As the spread of the virus is fast-changing, we will update the community with more definitive guidance as needed.
• Faculty should be prepared to test the delivery of course materials via online learning platforms on Wednesday, March 18, and Thursday, March 19.

4. We are asking employees on the Coral Gables and Marine campuses (who are not part of the UHealth system) to work from home on Friday, March 13, as part of a practice test for staff to work remotely. While there are no reported cases in Miami-Dade County, the time to prepare is now.

• Every major function of the University has contingency plans in place to ensure business continuity if a modified work schedule needs to be implemented in the future. Accordingly, on Friday, March 13, while students are on spring break, we are initiating a preparedness drill on the Coral Gables and Marine campuses to identify any operational issues that may arise so that potential interruptions can be addressed prior to activating these plans.
• With the exception of Tier One employees who support critical functions that cannot be performed remotely, all employees not part of the UHealth system who are on the Coral Gables and Marine campuses are encouraged to use this Friday, March 13, as a work-from-home day. Coordination of this drill will be handled at the unit level, and supervisors are encouraged to discuss and set clear expectations with their employees.
• This is a work-from-home day, not a stay-at-home day. The purpose for this exercise is to test systems of communication and other vital functions to ensure business continuity and to identify any issues that arise, so all employees must be working and accessible throughout normal working hours.

5. We are asking all units and all researchers to update their continuity plans.

• All units, including those engaged in research, are strongly encouraged to review and update continuity plans to minimize the impact to ongoing projects as a result of potential for future changes due to COVID-19. Visit www.miami.edu/UReady for additional guidance.

6. All University-related international travel is prohibited. University-related domestic travel must receive prior approval by a supervising dean or vice president.

• All travel, both international and domestic, by any employee who operates in or supports clinical care is prohibited to ensure appropriate staffing levels should situations warrant.
• Any member of the University community who travels to or from China, France, Germany, Iran, Italy, Japan, South Korea, or Spain will be required to self-quarantine for 14 days upon return.
• Students returning from these countries or areas must contact Student Health Service at studenthealth@miami.edu; staff, faculty members, or visiting scholars returning from these regions must contact UHealth Infection Control at 786-427-5018 prior to coming to campus.
• We also strongly discourage all members of the University community from any personal travel using mass transit (excluding localized mass transit, such as Metrorail or Tri-Rail).
• Travel for University athletics will continue to follow NCAA and ACC guidelines.

7. We are restricting guest access to residence halls.

• Effective Monday, March 16, access to University residence halls will be limited to University students, staff, and faculty. Outside guests will not be permitted inside residence halls.
• ’Cane Card access will be required to enter outside doors of the residential colleges at 5 p.m. daily, rather than 10 p.m., beginning on March 16.

On Monday, March 9, Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis declared a state of emergency in Florida. The designation allows the state to take proactive and effective measures to address the coronavirus outbreak. While there are 14 confirmed cases in Florida, there are no confirmed cases of coronavirus among members of the University of Miami community or in Miami-Dade County.

The situation remains fluid and University guidelines may evolve. We will continue to provide regular updates. This information, as well as prior University advisories and links to additional resources, can be found on the University’s designated coronavirus site at news.miami.edu/coronavirus.

These updates are important not only for you, but also for your family, so we ask that you share this communication with parents and other family members as appropriate.

Issued Friday, March 6, 2020

University of Miami President Julio Frenk discusses spring break and the coronavirus outbreak. Get the latest information on University messaging, resources, and frequently asked questions at our dedicated website, http://news.miami.edu/coronavirus.

Issued Thursday, March 5, 2020

Dear Faculty:

As we prepare for spring break, it is important that we directly address any misinformation about the University’s operational plans regarding the coronavirus outbreak. Apparently there are some unsubstantiated reports that classes will be canceled following spring break or that spring break will be extended. This is simply not true.

At this time, based on the diligent work of the University’s coronavirus taskforces, there are no plans to cancel regularly scheduled classes or to close our campuses. Further, in the absence of any reported COVID-19 cases among the University and South Florida communities, we are taking proactive steps outlined in our recent communications available at news.miami.edu/coronavirus. This site contains the most up-to-date and accurate information for the University community and is the sole source on coronavirus information for students, faculty, and staff. The University’s social media platforms are also making sure everyone is aware of this website. Please make sure faculty, staff, and students are aware of the University’s latest communications and health advisories related to the coronavirus and promote this helpful site.

I ask all of you to be nimble during this quickly-changing event and to be respectful of individual decisions made by students and academic peers as we continue to monitor this situation and to follow CDC guidelines, including their recommendations specific to higher education institutions. While we can’t predict the full scope and reach of the outbreak, spring break provides a window for faculty to consider and prepare for the potential impact the viral outbreak can have on our students and their families:

• Our recent actions to suspend study abroad programs in affected areas and nonessential international university-sponsored travel to those places are both precautionary and prudent measures, with any future actions guided by the best science and policies and in close coordination with government and public health agencies.
• Students are anxious, and we ask that the faculty be sensitive to and respectful of students’ personal health needs and that of their families.
• Faculty members should work with students who miss class because of self-isolation that may be required to ensure they can continue their academic pursuits.
• While there are no plans to close the University, we have been working on academic contingency planning since Hurricane Irma in 2017, and the School of Nursing and Health Studies’ recent presentation to the academic deans is promising and may serve as a model for other schools.
• We are more than halfway through the semester. Use spring break as an opportunity to refresh and recharge.
• Everyone should continue to follow good hygiene and responsible citizenship, which go a long way in controlling the spread of coronavirus.

Much is still unknown about the coronavirus, but we are better served by being informed, taking safeguards, following guidelines, and remaining supportive of our students and colleagues.

The health and safety of students, faculty, and staff remains our highest priority. Please do not hesitate to reach out to my office if you have any questions.

Sincerely,

Jeffrey L. Duerk, Ph.D.
Executive Vice President & Provost

Issued Friday, February 28, 2020

To the University of Miami Community,

The University of Miami continues to closely monitor the coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak, and University leaders are planning for a broad range of contingencies. We wanted to share with you important information regarding spring break and University-affiliated travel.

Following careful review of guidance from the U.S. Department of State, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), and the World Health Organization (WHO), and out of an abundance of caution, the University is implementing the following updates to travel restrictions:

• All University-affiliated travel to China, South Korea, Italy, Japan, and Iran is suspended, effective immediately.
• The University strongly recommends that all students, staff, and faculty members avoid all personal travel to China, Iran, Italy, Japan, or South Korea.
• Any member of the University community who travels to or from China, Iran, Italy, Japan, or South Korea is required to self-identify prior to returning to campus and will be required to self-quarantine for 14 days. Students returning from these countries must contact Student Health Service at studenthealth@miami.edu; staff, faculty members, or visiting scholars returning from these regions must contact UHealth Infection Control at 786-427-5018.

In addition to these travel restrictions and previously announced actions, the University is implementing the following measures:

• The University has suspended study abroad programs in Italy. All students enrolled in the Italy program are to return to their home locations in the United States or respective country by March 6, 2020.
• Study abroad programs in China, Japan, and South Korea, scheduled to begin later this semester, also have been suspended.
• The University is communicating directly with students in the impacted study abroad programs and is working with those students to ensure their safe return to the U.S. and to minimize disruption to their academic studies.
• The Study Abroad office continues to work directly with students enrolled in global academic programs. Study abroad students who have questions should email studyabroad@miami.edu.

As a reminder, all members of the University community traveling abroad to countries not restricted above as part of academic programs or University business must receive approval in advance and must register their travel information with International SOS.

Public health advisories and health precautions can change with little notice. Anyone planning international travel should check the status of COVID-19 alerts and precautions at all destinations, including layovers, and continue to do so until their return to the U.S.

Students who have questions about their return from countries affected by COVID-19 should contact Student Health Service at studenthealth@miami.edu. University employees who have questions should contact UHealth Infection Control at 786-427-5018.

Official communications from the University regarding the COVID-19 outbreak can be found at news.miami.edu/coronavirus.

Additional information about novel coronavirus:

• Coronavirus information for the University of Miami community
• Student Health Service novel coronavirus information and FAQs
• WHO novel coronavirus information
• CDC novel coronavirus information
• U.S. Department of State travel advisories
• CDC travel health notices

Issued Wednesday, February 26, 2020

To the University of Miami Community,

Following careful review of guidance from the U.S. Department of State, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), and the World Health Organization (WHO) related to the coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak, the University of Miami is implementing new travel guidance for Italy and South Korea, and is maintaining travel restrictions for China.

At this time, there are no confirmed cases of the virus among members of the University of Miami community or in the state of Florida, and we do not believe that there is any immediate health risk to our campuses.

Out of an abundance of caution, the University is implementing the following travel guidelines:

Travel to Italy or South Korea:

• The CDC has issued a level 2 travel alert for Italy, citing coronavirus and recommending travelers “practice enhanced precautions,” and a level 3 travel alert for South Korea, recommending that travelers “avoid all nonessential travel” to the country.
• Consistent with these advisories, only essential University-affiliated travel to these countries will be permitted, and travel should be delayed if possible.
• The University also strongly recommends that all students, staff, and faculty members avoid all nonessential personal travel to Italy or South Korea.
• Any member of the University community who travels to Italy or South Korea, whether for University-affiliated or personal travel, is required to self-identify immediately upon return and may be required to self-quarantine for 14 days. Students returning from these countries must contact Student Health Service at studenthealth@miami.edu; staff, faculty members, or visiting scholars returning from these regions must contact UHealth Infection Control at 786-427-5018.

Travel to China:

• Consistent with a State Department advisory, the University has suspended all University-affiliated travel to China, effective Jan. 31.
• All University-affiliated study abroad programs to China for the 2020 spring and summer semesters have been postponed and the Miami Herbert Business School’s March 2020 program in China has been canceled.
• Consistent with both State Department and CDC guidance, the University also recommends that all students, staff, and faculty members avoid all nonessential personal travel to China.
• Any member of the University community returning from China, whether for University-affiliated or personal travel, is required to self-identify immediately upon return. Students returning from China must contact Student Health Service at studenthealth@miami.edu; staff, faculty members, or visiting scholars returning from China must contact UHealth Infection Control at 786-427-5018.
• Beginning Feb. 2, any U.S. citizen returning to the United States who has been in Hubei Province in the previous 14 days will be subject to up to 14 days of mandatory quarantine.
• Any U.S. citizen returning to the United States who has been in other parts of mainland China within the previous 14 days will undergo health screening at select ports of entry and up to 14 days of monitored self-quarantine.

As a reminder, all students, staff, and faculty members traveling abroad as part of academic programs or University business must receive approval in advance and must register their travel information with International SOS.

Public health advisories and health precautions can change with little notice. Anyone planning international travel should check the status of COVID-19 alerts and precautions at all destinations, including layovers, and continue to do so until their return to the U.S.

Students who have questions about their return from countries affected by COVID-19 should contact Student Health Service at studenthealth@miami.edu. University employees who have questions should contact UHealth Infection Control at 786-427-5018.

The University continues to work closely with Miami-Dade County and the state of Florida to monitor the coronavirus situation and is following guidelines from the State Department, CDC, and WHO. As the situation evolves, additional travel restrictions may be implemented. Please continue to monitor updates from the University and public health agencies.

Official communications from the University regarding the COVID-19 outbreak can be found at news.miami.edu/coronavirus.

Additional information about novel coronavirus:

• Student Health Service novel coronavirus information and FAQs
• WHO novel coronavirus information
• CDC novel coronavirus information
  

Issued Friday, Jan. 31, 2020

To the University of Miami Community,

We are writing with an update on the University of Miami’s response to the novel coronavirus outbreak first identified in Wuhan, Hubei Province, China. The University is working closely with Miami-Dade County and the state of Florida to monitor this situation and is following guidelines from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the World Health Organization (WHO).

At this time, there are no confirmed cases of the virus among members of the University of Miami community or in the state of Florida, and we do not believe that there is any immediate health risk to our campuses.

The University of Miami Health System, UHealth, is following all CDC infection control recommendations to ensure the safety of all patients and staff, as well as to implement appropriate precautions for any patients who may arrive at UHealth facilities meeting the CDC screening criteria for the virus.

The U.S. State Department on Thursday, Jan. 30, heightened its travel advisory for China, urging citizens not to travel there due to the rapid spread of coronavirus.

Out of an abundance of caution, the University of Miami is implementing the following guidelines regarding travel to and from China:

Travel to China:

• Consistent with the State Department advisory, the University is suspending all University-affiliated travel to China, effective immediately.
• All University-affiliated study abroad programs to China for the 2020 spring and summer semesters have been postponed and the Miami Herbert Business School’s March 2020 program in China has been canceled.
• Consistent with both State Department and CDC guidance, the University also recommends that all students, staff, and faculty members avoid all nonessential personal travel to China.

Travel from China:

• Any student who has returned to the United States from China within the past 14 days must contact Student Health Service at studenthealth@miami.edu.
• Any staff or faculty member, or visiting scholar, who has returned to the United States from China within the past 14 days must contact UHealth Infection Control at 786-427-5018.
• All travelers arriving in the U.S. from China are being screened for symptoms of novel coronavirus at 20 U.S. ports of entry, including Miami International Airport.

As a reminder, all students, staff, and faculty members traveling on a University trip must register their travel information with International SOS before departing.

Flu activity is high in the U.S. and is expected to continue for several weeks. Anyone who has not received a flu vaccine this season should consider getting the vaccine. As always, we encourage any student who has health-related questions to contact Student Health Service at studenthealth@miami.edu and to refer to the Student Health Service website for any updates. Staff and faculty members should contact their primary care provider with any health care questions.

The University will notify students, staff, and faculty members if there is any immediate health threat to our campuses and will modify guidance as the situation warrants.

Additional information about novel coronavirus:

• University of Miami novel coronavirus health advisory No. 1(Jan. 27, 2020)
• Student Health Service novel coronavirus information and FAQs
• WHO novel coronavirus information
• CDC novel coronavirus information
• CDC novel coronavirus travel notice (Level 3)
• State Department China travel advisory (Level 4)

Issued Monday, Jan. 27, 2020

Health Advisory: Novel Coronavirus (2019-nCoV)

Public health agencies are closely monitoring developments around an outbreak of respiratory illness caused by a novel coronavirus first identified in Wuhan, Hubei Province, China. Additional cases have been identified in a growing number of other locations, including the United States, where five cases in travelers from Wuhan have been confirmed in four states (Arizona, California, Illinois, and Washington) as of Jan. 26, 2020.

At this time, there are no confirmed cases of the virus among members of the University of Miami community or in the state of Florida, and we do not believe that there is any immediate health risk to our campuses.

Student Health Service and other University partners are closely monitoring the situation and are following guidelines from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the World Health Organization (WHO). The University is taking precautions to identify cases as early as possible should they occur among members of the University community and continues to work in coordination with the Florida Department of Health and the CDC.

If you have been to Hubei Province, China—or been in contact with someone who has—in the past two weeks and feel sick with fever, cough, or difficulty breathing, you should seek medical care right away. Before you go to a doctor’s office or emergency room, call ahead and tell them about your recent travel and your symptoms.

The University will notify students, staff, and faculty members if there is any immediate health threat and will share information on the Student Health Service webpage as it becomes available.

As a reminder, all students, staff, and faculty members traveling on a University trip must register their travel information with International SOS before departing.

Flu activity is high in the U.S. and is expected to continue for several weeks. Anyone who has not received a flu vaccine this season should consider getting the vaccine. As always, we encourage any student who has health-related questions to contact Student Health Service at studenthealth@miami.edu and to refer to the Student Health Service website for any updates. Staff and faculty members should contact their primary care provider with any health care questions.

Frequently asked questions about coronavirus

What is Novel Coronavirus?  

• The 2019 Novel Coronavirus (2019-nCoV) is a virus identified as the cause of an outbreak of respiratory illness first detected in Wuhan, China. While the CDC considers this a serious public health concern, the immediate health risk from a coronavirus to the general American public is considered low at this time.

What are the symptoms?  

• Current symptoms reported for patients with 2019-nCoV have included mild to severe respiratory illness with fever, cough, and difficulty breathing.

How is it transmitted?  

• According to the CDC, the virus likely emerged from an animal source but now seems to be spreading from person to person. It is not yet clear how easily 2019-nCoV spreads from person to person.

How is it prevented and treated?

• Currently, there is no vaccine available to protect against 2019-nCoV. The CDC recommends everyday preventive actions to help prevent the spread of respiratory viruses, including:
  • 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 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.

What travel guidance has been offered for those traveling to or from China?  

• As of Jan. 27, 2020, the CDC has issued a Level 3 Travel Health Notice recommending people avoid all nonessential travel to Hubei Province, China, including Wuhan. The CDC has also issued a Level 2 Travel Health Notice for the rest of China. The notice advises travelers to other parts of China to protect their health by avoiding contact with sick people, avoiding animals (alive or dead) and animal markets, and washing their hands often.

Additional information about 2019 Novel Coronavirus is available on the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention website.