Coronavirus: local universities canceling student trips as cases, fears grow

MIAMI VALLEY — Local universities are canceling study abroad trips and asking students currently abroad to return home as coronavirus continues to spread.

Sinclair Community College canceled two student trips that were planned for last week to Italy and Denmark.

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“When the CDC and global health authorities reported cases of coronavirus in Italy, that obviously changed the decision of whether or not we would allow students to travel there,” said Adam Murka, VP for Advancement at Sinclair. “We understand this is something that they’re looking forward to, and unfortunately their safety simply has to be the highest priority here.”

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Students at Miami University have been restricted from traveling abroad. The university has canceled all its programs in China for the foreseeable future and is urging students in South Korea and Italy to return to the U.S. as soon as possible.

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Miami University is also urging students not to travel internationally during spring break.

The University of Dayton has also canceled two study abroad programs to China scheduled for the summer. Students in South Korea and Italy have been advised to return home.

“We will continue to monitor this evolving global situation to assist other students, faculty and staff who may be affected,” said university spokesperson Shawn Robinson.