The novel coronavirus (COVID-19) has now spread to over 100,000 people around the world, with over 3,500 deaths Both totals are higher than the SARS and MERS epidemics of the past.

Due to the February Biogen meeting in Boston, 15 new cases of COVID-19 within Boston have been identified. There have been reports of a Boston University Academy parent testing positive as well. Many people are asymptomatic, and are not aware of how important it is to seek medical care or take steps to isolate. The virus may even be dormant in the human body for over 14 days. College students are in contact with one another every single day: in classrooms, dormitories, and dining halls. Widespread infection is truly inevitable without proactive measures.

The Boston University campus is in the heart of the city of Boston. Students, faculty members, and citizens of the Greater Boston Area pass through our stretch of Commonwealth Avenue every single day. The matter of the virus spreading is unfortunately not one of if nor when. A Boston outbreak is going to have many unforeseen consequences, and our student body wants to be proactive, not reactive. As BU terriers, we tirelessly prioritize our academics but this is too heavy on our minds to ignore.

Again, we wish to be proactive, not reactive.

We are asking President Brown of Boston University to be proactive and close campus, before students return from spring break. Restrict campus activity to essential personnel + events only. Give students the chance to make alternative plans. Take advantage of technology and open online classes. We are well aware of the heavily contagious nature of COVID-19, particularly for those who are immunocompromised or of an older age. Please take initiative now. Not the day before spring break ends. Not once students are back on campus. Take action now, to keep students, their families, and our community safe.