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, has developed and is being monitored. At this time, there is limited person-to-person transmission, 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 or an alcohol-based hand sanitizer that contains at least 60% alcohol.
4. Limit the spread of germs and illness. Cover the 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. Self-isolate if you are feeling unwell (stay home and do not go to classes, work, school, or social events). If after 24 hours you are not feeling better consult medical guidance.

This time of year, as students are returning to campus, or traveling aboard, and cold and flu seasons are picking up, we are mindful of illnesses that could be acquired while traveling in other areas. For more information on coronavirus, or other common diseases, please visit the Campus Health disease updates page.Treatment for urgent medical illnesses/injuries is available at the Emergency Room of the Hospital of the University of Pennsylvania. The Emergency Room is separate from the Student Health Service.  Students are responsible for providing insurance information to the Emergency Room and for payment of any charges not covered by insurance.