As the COVID-19 continues its journey worldwide, its presence has become undeniable. In light of developing vaccines, as well as available testing, and diligent efforts made by the CDC, WHO, and similar organizations, we are hopeful that this epidemic will cease. Yet, despite these efforts we cannot deny that COVID-19 poses a threat to many.

Those infected with COVID-19 begin to show symptoms 2-14 days after exposure; therefore allowing an asymptomatic time period during which the virus is easily spread. Considering COVID-19 is a highly contagious disease, this time period is crucial for the spread of the virus to surfaces and surrounding people, allowing this virus to continue its jaunt nationwide.

As of today, there have been no confirmed cases at Binghamton University of the 14,201 students enrolled (as of Fall 2019). However, this coming Monday students will return from winter break after spending time in various public places, including New York City and surrounding areas where there have been over 20 confirmed cases of COVID-19 with more expected in the coming days. Additionally, students who attend the university have traveled abroad to countries with tens of thousands of confirmed cases. Due to these facts, it is undeniable that the chances of COVID-19 traveling to our university are fairly high. 

Binghamton University has already addressed these concerns, but has no clear plan of action in place for the return of students this coming week. It is seemingly not a matter of if, but WHEN Binghamton University will have to deal with the exposure of COVID-19. Rather than allow the asymptomatic period to be during on-campus classes — when infected student(s) could unwittingly spread COVID-19 to peers, professors, children, etc. — why not take a preventative approach?

The SUNY Binghamton website has published that there is a “plan” to prepare for academic disruption if this virus were to effect our school. Our question is, why PREPARE rather than PREVENT? 

The solution seems simple: ADVANCE this plan as to prevent the possible spread of this virus in the first two weeks that students return to campus and have constant contact with one another.

Move classes online for a two week period after March break as this will allow students who may have been exposed, to develop symptoms and obtain treatment.

Mr. Harvey Stenger, it is time to be PROACTIVE — not REACTIVE.