International Center COVID-19 Information Page and Travel FAQs

March 4, 2020

Dear Members of the Tufts International Community:

In light of the rapidly-evolving worldwide COVID-19 coronavirus situation, we wanted to highlight resources available on the International Center’s central coronavirus web page, at https://icenter.tufts.edu/coronavirus. The information here has been developed for the benefit of our international community at Tufts, and we will continue to add to and update the site as developments require. In offering this information, it joins the resources available at the University’s central coronavirus web page at go.tufts.edu/coronavirus. We are working closely with other university offices under the University’s coordinating process announced by President Monaco in his message to the University this morning.

Spring and Summer Travel Questions

Included on our central coronavirus web page are our responses to some frequently asked questions the International Center has received from students and scholars about upcoming spring and summer vacation travel. Under the current circumstances, it is extremely important that everyone who plans to travel, especially internationally, exercise a high degree of caution by doing research and keeping up to date on developments. Travel conditions – including restrictions on entry, health checks and screenings, voluntary or mandatory quarantines, and other measures – may change rapidly without much advance notice. Keep in mind that in addition to the US government’s evolving response, different countries – as well as airlines, cruise lines, and other travel operators – are making decisions daily as the situation continues to evolve. Our recommendations include:

• Read the information at go.tufts.edu/coronavirus, the International Center’s coronavirus web page, and travel advisories offered by different sources including the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the US State Department, the World Health Organization, the European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control, and other sources
• The University strongly advises against travel to locations experiencing widespread ongoing transmission of COVID-19, i.e., countries listed as CDC Level 3 or US State Department Levels 3 or 4 (including China, Iran, Italy, and South Korea)
• Register your travel in the Tufts Travel Registry if your travel is related to university or school business, including school trips and research activities abroad
• Read about the current US travel suspensions in force for persons arriving from China and Iran
• Carry all required immigration documents needed for international travel as well as information about emergency contacts in case you have difficulty at the border
• Be aware of your health needs and carry your prescription medication, health insurance documentation, and other records as may be necessary
• Consult with your airline carrier or cruise operator frequently for updates and guidance
• Make flexible travel arrangements including buying refundable or flexible-date tickets
• Take recommended preventive measures for not only reducing the spread of coronavirus, but also other respiratory illnesses such as seasonal flu
• Above all, cancel or delay travel if you are feeling unwell for any reason, and seek immediate medical assistance if you are showing symptoms such as fever, cough, and shortness of breath.

Unfortunately, the COVID-19 crisis has created considerable uncertainty and unpredictability, and the International Center is unable to offer firm reassurance and guidelines about what future developments will hold in the coming weeks and months. However, by preparing yourself and keeping informed, your chances of having successful and enjoyable travel experiences will be greatly enhanced. Please continue to reach out to us at internationalcenter@tufts.edu with your questions, comments, and suggestions. We will continue to work to support you during these challenging times.

Sincerely,

Andrew K. Shiotani
Director, Tufts International Center