The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) is closely monitoring an outbreak of respiratory illness caused by COVID-19, which was first identified in China. According to the CDC, the complete clinical picture with regard to COVID-19 is not fully understood. 

The risk for Alabamians remains relatively low at this time, and UAB — along with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and the Alabama Department of Public Health — are closely monitoring the ongoing situation. COVID-19 can cause mild illness that can be overcome, but more severe cases can be life-threatening. More information about the 2019 novel coronavirus is available on the CDC website.

UAB leadership has been encouraged to make decisions based on potential risks and circumstances regarding university-sponsored domestic travel, events and visitors to campus. Decisions should be based on the relative risk of the travel or visitor(s), understanding that our top priority as an institution is the health and safety of our campus community. UAB is taking full precation, educating the campus and community on how to prepare in the event of a pandemic. As the situation evolves, the UA System and UAB leaders will continue to monitor the situation closely and provide additional or revised guidance. 

For more information and updates regarding Coronavirus, visit https://www.uab.edu/news/coronavirus.