The novel coronavirus(COVID-19) has now spread to over 91,000 people around the globe and has caused almost 3,000 deaths, both totals higher than the SARS and MERS epidemics of the past.

As of March 10th, the Broward County Commission has declared a state of emergency due to the 4th case of community spreading Though there are currently no reported cases within the immediate Lynn University community, it is impossible to know the extent of the threat. The virus may lay dormant in the body for two weeks or even more before symptoms emerge. The close proximity in classrooms, dining halls and other crowded areas will inevitably increase infection rates. It is also true that now there are currently dozens of students who are in self-quarantine in order to protect the community. How long until somebody brings it into campus and makes it a community spread disease?

As one of the universities in the Boca Raton and Broward area, this is something that is inevitable. Once the virus spreads, it will have many unforeseen consequences, direct and indirect. As students, we place great priority on our academics, but right now this event must take precedence.

We are asking Kevin M. Ross, the president of Lynn University to take the initiative and close the campus in order to stop the spread of this virus. Take advantage of technology, start online classes. We all already know the risks COVID-19 poses to the public, particularly those who are immunocompromised or elderly, and we must act now to keep students, their families, and the community safe.