A 70-year-old Ticino man was diagnosed with coronavirus and has been hospitalized according to protocol. Officials have determined no need for additional precautions at this time.

The Federal Office of Health (FOPH) has reported a first case of Coronavirus (COVID-19) in Ticino. A 70-year-old man was infected with the virus during a demonstration on February 15 in Milan. He is now in isolated care in the hospital and in stable condition. His family members have been quarantined pending verification of their condition. The FOPH also reported that the process worked exactly as expected and that hospital's specialists and personnel took all precautionary measures required by protocol. The cantonal authorities confirm that there is no need for additional precautions and that no school closings or travel advisories are in effect at this time.

With regard to Academic Travel, we are closely monitoring the situation in Italy, at Malpensa, and abroad. The President’s Cabinet will meet on Tuesday, March 3 and make a final decision based on the available information at that time.

As stated in our previous announcement, all classes will be held as scheduled for the rest of the week. We still recommend that faculty, staff and students living in Northern Italy follow the recommendations of their local authorities..

Again, we recommend observing the following protocols:

  • Wash your hands frequently.
  • Sneeze or cough into an elbow or tissue.
  • Avoid crowded places

If you develop flu-like symptoms, please contact Chris Schmid, RN, Coordinator of Student Medical Services and Well Being at medicalservices@fus.edu.

We will continue to provide updates on the Franklin website and via the Franklin app as needed.

More info at www.fus.edu/coronavirus.