Dear MU students,

We are contacting you because you are participating in a study abroad program or university-related international travel during spring 2020 or academic year 2019/20. We understand that spring break recess is coming up soon for some of you. This message provides guidance regarding independent travel throughout the duration of your time abroad.  
 
The University of Missouri is continually monitoring COVID-19. Based on the recent travel advisories and warnings from the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and Department of State, MU has canceled study abroad programs and university-sponsored international travel to Italy, China and South Korea for spring, spring break and summer 2020. This is in accordance with the MU Student International Travel Policy. In addition, MU strongly recommends that you do not arrange independent travel to Italy, South Korea or China throughout the duration of your study abroad program or university-related international travel.  
 
Please remember to update your itinerary in your myStudyAbroad application to include independent travel during your time abroad. This will update AlertTraveler and ensure you receive real-time security information for the location(s) where you plan to travel. It also will assist the university in contacting you in case of an emergency. Please be sure to notify your host university/organization or program provider of any upcoming independent travel. 
 
Given that COVID-19 is a rapidly evolving situation, continue to monitor information from the CDC and Department of State for your host country and all countries where you plan to travel. In addition, you should:

• Update your registration in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (U.S. citizens) to include any countries where you plan to travel so the U.S. Embassy can send important information about safety conditions.
• Follow all travel instructions from local authorities.
• Continue to monitor international and local media.
• Review our COVID-19 study abroad information for details about university-related international travel for students. University updates can be found on the MU Alert website and current travel alerts page.

Please don’t hesitate to contact any of us if you have questions or would like additional information. We know this has been a challenging situation, and we are here to support you. In case of an emergency affecting your health, safety or security, first seek assistance from local emergency service providers. After doing so, and when you are safe, call our 24/7 emergency assistance line through the MU Police Department at +1 573-882-7201. The department will contact an appropriate MU staff member to assist you.