February 5th, 2020

Dear Students and Faculty members,


The novel coronavirus, which was first reported from the People’s Republic of China (PRC), has spread to other countries and regions. Several countries have imposed border restrictions as preventive measures against the outbreak, which is expected to continue further.

Those who plan to travel overseas are advised to check the latest information of the countries/regions with reported cases as well as the areas nearby. Should it be necessary, they are also advised to consider altering their travel plans while putting their safety as the top priority.

As of January 31, 2020, Japanese Government raised the infectious disease warning level for PRC to the level 2, advising not to travel unless for a necessary or urgent purpose. The level for Hubei Province is also raised to the level 3, advising not to travel. Since February 1st, Japan has also imposed tighter border restrictions, such as denying entry of foreign nationals who have stayed in Hubei Province. Considering such recent development, Sophia University requests its students and staff members to cancel or postpone any travel plan to PRC.

Those who have a recent travel history to Hubei Province, had a contact with someone with the history, and/or had a contact with someone with the symptoms in a country or a region with reported cases, should pay close attention to their health condition during the incubation period about 2 weeks and remain at home unless absolutely necessary. If you have symptoms such as fever and cough, make sure to contact and report your travel history to the nearest Public Health Center (“Hokenjo”) and call Sophia University Health Center (03-3238-3394).

As everyday preventive actions make sure to gargle, hand wash, and rest well.

Those students who are participating in study abroad programs organized by the university may be contacted by program coordinators through Loyola and email. Please check them regularly.

<Useful resources>

• Novel coronavirus pneumonia (Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare)    *In Japanese
  https://www.mhlw.go.jp/stf/seisakunitsuite/bunya/0000164708_00001.html
• Ministry of Foreign Affairs    *In Japanese
  http://www.anzen.mofa.go.jp
• Infectious Disease Surveillance Center    *In Japanese
  https://www.niid.go.jp/niid/ja/from-idsc.html
• Novel Coronavirus 2019 (World Health Organization)
  https://www.who.int/emergencies/diseases/novel-coronavirus-2019