University of Rochester should close campus due to the outbreak of COVID-19. Up until March 10th, there have been already over hundred people confirmed cases in New York state and the number continues rise . Although there has not been a confirmed case among our student bodies so far, it is at risk to hold normal classes after spring break since most students are travelled back from different regions, including places that are highly infectious.

COVID-19 is airborne and highly contagious. According to WHO’s latest data, the mortality rate of COVID-19 is 3.4%. While the mortality rate of flu that took place in the United States has a mortality rate fewer than 1%. THIS IS DEFINITELY NOT A FLU.

Many Universities have already decided to close campuses, including NYU, USC, UCB, Rice, Columbia, Vanderbilt and so on. For the health of all members in U of R community, the university should close campus after spring break.