March 12, 2020 – Spring Break Travel Update

To: Campus Community
From: President Gayle Hutchinson

I know our students, faculty, and staff have worked extremely hard this semester and deserve a much-needed rest over the upcoming spring break. I and the University want everyone to have the opportunity to relax and recharge while also staying safe and healthy. 

With the rapidly changing situation regarding COVID-19, we are echoing the advice of local and state public health experts in strongly recommending that individuals reconsider planned travel, especially non-essential, to international locations and to COVID-19 hotspots in the United States, including California(opens in new window). Please think twice about whether any travel, regardless of destination, is worth the risk. Staying locally may be the safest option, for you and those you care about.

 If you do travel, please consider the following guidance:

 Know the Risks

• COVID-19 conditions in the United States and abroad continue to change. Monitor travel advisories for your destinations, and consult with national, state, and local public-health resources such as the CDC(opens in new window) and US State Department Travel Advisories(opens in new window) before you go and while you are away.
• Officials may implement additional international travel restrictions with little notice. See the latest update on European travel restrictions.(opens in new window) Re-entry to the United States may become more restricted, and you may be subject to quarantine measures.
• Airlines may cancel or limit flights with little notice.
• Additional quarantine measures may be applied within the United States and abroad.

Prevent Illness While Away

Practice preventive behaviors recommended by the CDC(opens in new window) during your travel, including:

• Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. If soap and water are not readily available, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol.
• Avoid close contact with people who are sick.
• Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth.
• Cover your cough or sneeze with a tissue, then throw the tissue in the trash.
• Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces using a regular household cleaning spray or wipes.

Be Aware of Symptoms Upon Return

Chico State wants students and employees experiencing any flu-like symptoms—no matter where you may have traveled—to self-isolate until their symptoms go away. Faculty and staff can also call their health care providers or Butte County Public Health at 530-552-4000 to get guidance.

Please take care of yourselves and one another. Have a restful and restorative break, and I look forward to welcoming you back later this month.