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What You Need to Know

• The University has suspended all Columbia-related travel, both international and domestic, for all affiliates until further notice. Consistent with CDC guidance, Columbia advises all affiliates who have returned from ANY international travel, to stay home for 14 days after returning from travel, monitor their health, and practice social distancing. Follow the self-isolation guidance found on the Columbia Preparedness COVID-19 FAQs. Additionally, all Columbia affiliates are strongly urged to postpone any non-essential personal travel abroad.
• Commencement Week ceremonies are postponed. We are not in a position to announce an alternative plan, but degrees will be conferred on May 20, and we will have a plan to honor and celebrate student successes.
• There is widespread community transmission of COVID-19 happening in New York City. Stay home if you are sick. All New Yorkers should monitor their health carefully. Healthcare workers may refer to the CUIMC website for guidance.
• The university is open for essential personnel only. Many services are reduced or closed. Contact the specific University department to learn about service adjustments.
• The University strongly encourages social distancing.
• Community transmission means that COVID-19 is circulating widely in NYC and that we should act as if we are all exposed. If you are sick, stay home. All New Yorkers must monitor their health carefully at this time.

Last updated Friday, April 3, 2020 at 5:15 pm EDT.

I'm Sick. What Should I Do?

Call ahead to a healthcare professional if you develop a fever and symptoms of respiratory illness, such as cough or difficulty breathing, and have been in close contact with a person known to have COVID-19 or if you live in or have recently traveled to an area with ongoing spread. Tell your healthcare professional about your recent travel or contact. Your healthcare professional will work with public health officials to determine if you need to be tested for COVID-19. If you are at higher risk of getting very sick from COVID-19, follow the updated recommendations from the CDC.

CUIMC has established two fever and cough clinics where people with respiratory symptoms can see a health care provider and, if clinically warranted, be tested for COVID-19. Walk-ins are NOT accepted. To schedule an appointment, individuals must first be screened by a healthcare provider in the Columbia system, which can be done by phone or via a tele-health visit. After this initial screening, the provider can electronically schedule an appointment for the patient in the fever and cough clinics. Individuals who do not have a Columbia health care provider can connect with one by calling 877-426-5637.

For guidance on symptoms and treatment, students should call 212-854-9355. Today, the hotline is open until 5:00 pm.