KALAMAZOO, MI (WKZO AM/FM) — Spring break is over for students at Western Michigan University (WMU), meaning that several people who have traveled worldwide will be returning to class.
However, WMU is now taking extra precautions to help prevent the spread of coronavirus.
“If you have traveled to China, Iran, Italy or South Korea in the last 14 days, we need to know. Tell us today at info@wmich.edu,” WMU Public Safety officials said in a Twitter post.
Similar measures have been taken by other Michigan colleges, including Wayne State, the University of Michigan and Central Michigan University.
Where Central Michigan University is concerned, a two-week self-quarantine for students who traveled to those areas has been imposed.
Meanwhile, the University of Michigan is restricting travel of their students to China, unless there are special cases with a safety plan in place. Even with a safety plan, officials say approval is likely to be denied.
The university also advises against personal travel to China for any reason.
At this time, Michigan continues to have no reported cases of the virus, but Governor Gretchen Whitmer is reminding all citizens to remain vigilant.
“While there have been no confirmed cases in Michigan yet, we must recognize that this virus has the potential to impact nearly every aspect of our lives,” Whitmer said in a statement. “From our public schools, colleges, and universities to our businesses and hospitals, we must harness all of the resources we have to ensure we can prevent the spread of coronavirus and keep Michiganders safe.”
Officials maintain that the best way to avoid becoming infected is to practice good hygiene (including proper hand washing), avoiding people who are sick, and avoiding contact with those who have traveled to affected countries.
The coronavirus spread is an ongoing development. Citizens can keep up with all updates at the official Michigan website and the CDC website.
