Jamestown Community College officials prepare contingencies in the event coronavirus is found at its campuses. P-J file photo by Jordan W. Patterson

A handful of Jamestown Community College students studying abroad will remain in communication with college officials while coronavirus cases increase worldwide.

“On all of our campuses we’re taking additional measures and carefully exercising appropriate hygiene and preparing contingency plans for any outbreak and possibility that we may need to act or contain or help a student that may become sick,” said Kirk Young, vice president of student affairs.

Any JCC students studying in high-outbreak areas including Italy, Iran, Japan, China or South Korea will be returned to the U.S. much like the 300 State University of New York (SUNY) students who are having their trips abroad cut short.

SUNY students who are studying in those countries will be returned to New York state and quarantined for 14 days at a state campus while medical provisions and food is provided to them.

“When students return to the U.S. they will be quarantined at a SUNY institution for a two-week period,” Young reiterated.

Young noted that students studying abroad in areas that are not designated as high risk will not be transported home at this time.

Young said Dr. Daniel DeMarte, JCC president, formed a coronavirus taskforce that meets on a weekly basis to continue to prepare for an outbreak. JCC sent a “comprehensive” email to staff and students regarding hygiene tips and methods to avoid a potential virus contraction.

In the email, JCC officials ask all students and employees to report any travel outside of the country when visiting the health center for treatment. College officials also indicate that any suspected cases will be reported to state and county health officials. Furthermore, staff members are identifying isolation rooms in each residence hall.

Those who feel ill or feel sick with fever, cough, or have difficulty breathing are recommended to stay home and avoid contact with others except when seeking medical care.

Additionally, Young said in the event of an outbreak or heightened risk of the virus, school leaders are reviewing methods to ensure students will continue to receive their education.

Going forward, Young said SUNY officials are advising that all future trips over seas be postponed.

“We have received direction from SUNY that we should cancel any campus sponsored travel outside the U.S.,” Young said adding that SUNY has offered weekly updates regarding any developments with the virus.