Arizona universities issue updates amid coronavirus outbreak

PHOENIX — The same day the total number of coronavirus cases in Arizona reached nine, the University of Arizona and Northern Arizona University announced their initial responses and courses of action.

UArizona announced in a statement that there were currently no coronavirus cases to report on its domestic campuses.

However, in a separate statement, university President Robert C. Robbins said that classes would be delayed until March 18 and will resume online wherever possible.

The university said that its officials are monitoring the outbreak of COVID-19 closely with both the Arizona Department of Health Services and Pima County Health Department

NAU’s President Rita Hartung Cheng also stated Wednesday that there are no confirmed coronavirus cases at NAU, in Flagstaff or in Coconino County.

Unlike UArizona, NAU is not rearranging the structure of its courses.

“It is important that our faculty, staff, and students know that NAU remains fully operational,” Cheng said.

“We expect our faculty to hold classes and our students to attend classes and complete coursework through the remainder of this week. We will communicate if there is a need to adjust operations.”

The universities’ updates came hours after President Donald Trump addressed the nation from the Oval Office, announcing a 30-day travel suspension between the United States and Europe, beginning on Friday.

The travel suspension will not apply to the United Kingdom.

Related

Ducey issues public health emergency for Arizona due to coronavirusCien Agaves Tacos & Tequila expands with new East Valley location“Today” show host Savannah Guthrie begs for “someone to come forward” in her mother’s disappearanceGreat Wolf Lodge looks to expand resort with additional towerMaricopa County Library District celebrates opening of new West Valley branchBygone mall favorite Hot Dog on a Stick plans return to Arizona