Message from the Provost about a confirmed case of coronavirus at UCL

I am writing to let you know that we found out earlier this evening that one of our students has tested positive for coronavirus (Covid-19).

UCL’s immediate priority is to support our student, as well as their family and friends. The student has not been on campus in the last ten days and has self-isolated at home. They do not live in UCL student accommodation. Our Student Support & Wellbeing Team is in close communication with them and we ask that their privacy is respected.

I know that this news will concern many of you, who are already feeling anxious about the impact of the virus. If you are worried, I encourage you to speak to your family and friends, or use the specialist counselling services available for students and staff.

It is inevitable that there will be further cases in the coming days and weeks as cases increase in the UK.

If you feel unwell and think that you may have the virus, please self-isolate for seven days in line with the current Government advice. If you have a pre-existing health-condition, or you are close to someone who has, please contact NHS 111 or your GP for medical advice. Further advice on self-isolation is available from Public Health England. You can also contact the Department for Health helpline on 0800 046 8687 (8am-6pm, Monday-Friday).

I want to reassure you that we are working closely with Public Health England and the NHS to ensure that UCL remains a safe place for our students, staff and visitors. If you do not feel comfortable being on campus, please read the advice on UCL’s main coronavirus webpage. Students will not be penalised for not attending classes.

We know staff and students are worried about the impact coronavirus will have on teaching and assessments. We are putting plans in place for alternative modes of assessment and we will be able to share more details with you tomorrow once these proposals have been confirmed.

I am very proud of our community for the support and the respect you have shown each other during this difficult time. UCL is a truly international community with students and staff from around the world and we are committed to providing a welcome and safe environment for everyone.

We are continuing to monitor the situation and we will share more information with you as soon as it is available. Please check www.ucl.ac.uk/coronavirus for the latest updates for students and staff.

Best wishes,
Professor Michael Arthur
UCL President & Provost