The University is monitoring the novel coronavirus outbreak closely. Coronaviruses are a large, very common, family of viruses. They can be mild like a cold, or more severe like Middle East Respiratory Syndrome (MERS-CoV). A novel coronavirus (2019-nCoV), meaning a new strain of the virus, was identiied. At this time, there is limited person-to-person transmission of the illness globally, meaning little risk to our Penn Community. To continue to keep yourself healthy and well, follow these tips:

1. If you become unwell following travel, schedule an appointment at SHS or call SHS to speak to a nurse (215-746-3535). If you are Penn faculty or staff, please contact your Primary Care provider.
2. If traveling and feeling unwell, seek medical care. International SOS or your health insurance can be a good source of information regarding accessing care.
3. Use good hand hygiene: Wash hands with soap and warm water for 20 seconds or use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer that contains at least 60% alcohol.
4. Limit the spread of germs and illness: Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue when coughing or sneezing. If you don’t have a tissue, cough or sneeze into your sleeve or elbow. Avoid sharing food, drinks, utensils, cups, vapes/JUULs, etc.
5. Stay home if you are feeling unwell. If you are not feeling better after 24 hours, seek medical guidance.

It is not likely 2019-nCoV will hit campus, but it is likely we continue to see respiratory illnesses that mimic some of the symptoms. Flu remains the predominant concern at this time. Please visit the Campus Health Disease Updates page for more details on coronaviruses.