We are getting many questions from students and their home institutions. We have compiled here the most frequent ones, together with our answers. Obviously, our answers today may be different in a few days as the situation evolves. We will keep our community informed as best we can with the most updated information as we receive it.

Q1: Since classes are suspended for the next few days, is it safe to travel within or outside the country?

A1: There are no current limitations to travel, however as things can change quite rapidly, we cannot guarantee that you might not be prevented at some point or another from using certain means of transportation to leave/return to Italy. Also, the general advice given to reduce risk of contagion is to avoid as much as possible closed public spaces, so buses, planes and trains may not be the safest to use at this time.

Q2: Is it safe to stay in Italy, or should I consider going home?

A2: Although some news outlets may make you think otherwise, there is no evidence that you are at greater risk by staying here than traveling back home. We would advise to wait at least a week, at which point we might have a better sense as to what the longer term effects of this crisis might be. The current measures are preventive in nature and are meant to contain the contagion in parts of the country that in fact are not specific to the city of Milan. At this time, we expect to resume normal activity next Monday, March 2.

Q3: Could the suspension of classes last more than a week?

A3: We do not know at this time what might happen in a week from now. We are taking the information in as we receive it. The University is making assessments and is putting contingencies in place should access to class be further delayed. More information will be given once available. At this time, we expect to resume normal activity next Monday, March 2.

Q4: Is everything closed in Milan? Can I still get food at the grocery store?

A4: Places of socialization and public aggregation are closed or limiting their time of operation, so cafés, bars, and clubs will close earlier than normal, i.e. 6pm, until further notice. Also large social events such as soccer games are for the time being suspended. While there was in fact a first assault of grocery stores in the city over the weekend, most should have been restocked and access to food should not be an issue.

Cattolica International