Current MUSC Faculty and Staff Travel Policies

A Message from Lisa K. Saladin, PT, Ph.D., FAPTA - February 28, 2020

Dear MUSC Faculty and Staff,

You have likely seen the message from President Cole regarding the prohibition of some international travel for university faculty and staff. I write this to provide additional information and clarification.

There is a travel ban in place for all MUSC sponsored international travel for faculty and staff to, or transitioning through, all countries at a CDC Level 2 and 3 (COVID-19). Currently that includes China, South Korea, Italy, Iran and Japan. Additional countries will likely be added and these travel alerts can be monitored. Exceptions to this directive will be granted only in the rarest circumstances and must be approved by the respective dean, provost and the International Travel Oversight Committee.
MUSC sponsored travel includes any travel that meets one or more of the following criteria:
1. if any portion of the trip is paid for from any MUSC source
2. if you are specifically traveling for business purposes because of your MUSC affiliation
As a reminder, MUSC faculty and staff are required to register MUSC-related international travel with International SOS, our global emergency medical and security evacuation assistance provider. Registration makes it possible for MUSC to assist in the event of a crisis or emergency.
There is currently no domestic travel restriction or prohibition for university faculty and staff. However, we advise everyone traveling domestically to stay informed about current COVID-19 rates in the United States and to practice prevention techniques.
The following are ways you can reduce your risk of contracting COVID-19:
- Avoid close contact with people who are sick.
- Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth.
- Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces using a regular household cleaning spray or wipe.
- Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, especially after going to the bathroom; before eating; and after blowing your nose, coughing, or sneezing.
  - If soap and water are not readily available, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol. Always wash hands with soap and water if hands are visibly dirty.

In addition, everyone choosing to travel domestically at this time must be aware that in the unlikely event they contract COVID-19 and test positive after their return, a mandated self-quarantine for a minimum of 14 days is in place. Additional guidelines related to post-travel screening and illnesses will be posted by the end of the week.

Preparing for the Future

The future is uncertain at this time. However, we need to be prepared for all potential circumstances. In the unlikely case that the University is forced to close for any period of time, please know that each college/program is currently working on plans to minimize the disruption to students and academic activities including research.

Please stay tuned for additional updates and information as this situation continues to evolve.

Sincerely,

Lisa

Lisa K. Saladin, PhD, FAPTA
Executive Vice President for Academic Affairs and Provost