Coronavirus: NUI Galway Erasmus students told to come home

NUI Galway has warned its Erasmus students studying in Northern Italy to immediately return to Ireland, amid fears of the rapid spread of Coronavirus in the country.

One student, who has just returned from the University of Genoa, spoke of the sense of panic felt among Irish students in the affected region.

“We were getting emails about the virus and within days people were booking flights home, I was with a group of six other students form UCC and they all flew home immediately,” she said.

In a statement to the Galway City Tribune, the university confirmed it has requested the return of ten of its students who are at universities in Northern Italy.

“The University is advising and emphasising the need for returning students to follow the latest health advice issued by the Health Service Executive and the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade in planning and undertaking their journey.”

NUIG issued an email to students the 10 students stating: “The University is asking each of you to leave the region in which you are located. It is our preference that you return to campus to complete the semester, however please let us know if you wish to discuss alternative arrangements.”
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