The World Health Organization on March 11 officially declared COVID-19 a pandemic.
Earlier in the day, in a related release, the University of Wisconsin–Madison asked students not to return to campus from spring break until at least April 10. The university continues to be concerned about spring break travel and continues to ask students to reconsider any non-essential personal travel plans.
The unprecedented announcement says classroom instruction will be suspended effective Monday, March 23, the day students would be returning from vacation. “Alternate delivery of classes will begin on March 23 and continue at least through Friday, April 10,” the release notes.
Officials are particularly concerned about residence halls and will provide additional guidance for students, many from other countries, who will not be able to leave. “Students who stay in residence halls should be prepared for a reduced campus experience with limited opportunities for interaction and reduced campus services,” the release states.
Concerns over the spread of COVID-19 have prompted other universities across the country to also suspend in-person classes following spring break. Additionally, the NCAA announced an unprecedented move to play all March Madness basketball tournament games without fans in attendance, according to Associated Press reports.
