NEW BRUNSWICK, NJ — Due to growing concerns about the coronavirus, Rutgers University made the decision Monday to cancel all its spring semester study abroad programs and international spring break programs.

Rutgers University president Robert Barchi announced the decision Monday. "In keeping with guidance by the CDC, today we made the decision to cancel Rutgers-sponsored study abroad semester programs, international spring break programs, and Rutgers faculty-sponsored study abroad programs," said Barchi.



He also recommended any Rutgers student currently abroad in a third-party study abroad program "return home as soon as practical." And he advised against Rutgers students and staff doing any overseas travel or plane travel. Barchi announced the news as Gov. Phil Murphy said Monday that one person was set to be tested in New Jersey for the illness.

Murphy said anyone with pneumonia requiring hospitalization, with no obvious source for the diagnosis, will be tested. "We've been at this for weeks and we are staying vigilant," the governor said. New Jersey state Health Commissioner Judith Persichilli said the person set to be tested was actually not hospitalized as of 1 p.m. Monday, and the state Department of Health expects to receive specimens later Monday.

"We are taking all steps available to protect the residents of New Jersey," she said.

Murphy's announcement came as six deaths in the United States resulting from the coronavirus have been reported. At least three in Washington were announced on Monday.

Rutgers organized an emergency meeting Monday to address the virus. Barchi said the spread of the virus was "likely." "We are working to address any academic issues that arise for the 200 students currently involved in international study abroad programs," said Barchi. "We will announce a decision regarding study abroad programs currently planned for the summer and for next semester in the coming weeks, certainly before the April 1 deadline for enrollment in those programs."

