Dear Marist students in Italy,

As indicated yesterday, Marist has been closely monitoring the development of coronavirus cases in Italy, together with our Italian affiliate, Istituto Lorenzo de’ Medici (LdM).

The safety and security of students remains our top priority. Marist College and LdM are currently working together to determine any additional steps that may need to be taken to safeguard students and the program.

We operate with an abundance of caution, and will continue to be informed by the US Centers for Disease Control (CDC) and the World Health Organization (WHO). We will also continue to remain in close contact with other international and local governmental organizations; educational affiliates in Italy and elsewhere; our professional networks; and the private sector.

As a reminder, please be sure to follow the recommended precautions:

· Avoid close contact with others both in crowded places and in person-to-person interactions.

· Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. If soap and water are not readily available, use hand sanitizer that contains at least 60% alcohol.

· LdM classroom buildings have hand sanitizer available for students to use.

· The Marist office and residence also have hand sanitizer available for students to use.

· The WHO does not recommend that people who are well wear face masks to protect themselves from respiratory diseases, including the novel coronavirus.

· Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth with unwashed hands.

· Either cover a cough or sneeze with a tissue (that immediately gets thrown away), or cover a cough or sneeze with bend of your elbow.

· Frequently disinfect often touched objects and surfaces, including your personal belongings.

· Take measures to maintain a strong immune system including eating well, getting adequate sleep, avoiding excessive alcohol consumption, and avoiding undue stress.

LdM has written an updated informational message on the coronavirus to students as well. I am pasting LdM’s message below mine – please take a read of LdM’s message as it also contains important information.

We understand that this is a stressful time. Please rest assured that we are working diligently with LdM on any possible changes to the program, and that we will keep you updated.

Best regards,

John Peters

Dr. John E. Peters Dean, International Programs Acting Dean, Marist Italy Associate Professor, Economics Marist College