Lincoln University is closely monitoring the coronavirus outbreak that originated in Wuhan and has spread to regions outside China.
Update 4 February 2020
The Government has placed temporary entry restrictions into New Zealand on all foreign nationals travelling from or transiting through mainland China to assist with the containment of the coronavirus and to protect New Zealand from the disease. This is effective from 3 February and will be in place for up to 14 days. The position will be reviewed every 48 hours.
Any foreign travellers who leave or transit through mainland China after 2 February 2020 (NZ time) will be refused entry to New Zealand. Any foreign travellers in transit to New Zealand on 2 February 2020 will be subject to enhanced screening on arrival but, pending clearance, will be granted entry to New Zealand. New Zealand citizens and permanent residents returning to New Zealand will still be able to enter, as will their immediate family members, but will be required to a voluntary stay away period for 14 days on arrival back in the country.
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade has also raised its travel advice to New Zealanders for all of mainland China to “Do not travel”, the highest level.
If this affects you, please contact us as soon as possible
If you are affected by the restrictions, or you have any questions or concerns about your specific situation, please get in touch with us. Email us at SAFELU@Lincoln.ac.nz so as we can support you.
Are there coronavirus cases in New Zealand?
Currently, no cases of the virus have been detected in New Zealand, and the risk of a sustained outbreak in New Zealand is considered low by the New Zealand Ministry of Health (MOH) and Ministry of Education (MOE); lead agencies on advising about the coronavirus as the situation develops. Should the situation change, Lincoln University has the necessary plans in place to respond as with the outbreak of any infectious disease.
Is the University open?
Lincoln University is open and operating as normal. Students are expected to start arriving for Orientation Week from 10 February onwards, with semester one lectures starting 17 February.
What action is the University taking?
The health and safety of our students is a priority. The University continues to closely monitor the situation and follow the recommendations of the MOH and the MOE.
What can I do to protect myself?
Standard recommendations to reduce exposure to and transmission of a range of illnesses include maintaining basic hand and respiratory hygiene, and safe food practices and avoiding close contact (when possible) with anyone showing symptoms of respiratory illness such as coughing and sneezing. And importantly staying at home or in your residence room if you have flu-like symptoms.
What should I do if I have recently travelled to an affected region?
If you have recently arrived in New Zealand and feel unwell, please ring the Lincoln University Health and Support Centre +64 3 325 3835 or the New Zealand Healthline at 0800 611 116. It is important to mention recent travel from Wuhan or China.
If you have recently been in China or have been in close contact with someone confirmed with the virus, please voluntarily stay away from campus for a period of 14 days from your arrival in New Zealand. Email us at SAFELU@lincoln.ac.nz and let us know.
What are the symptoms of coronavirus?
Symptoms reported for patients with coronavirus include mild to severe respiratory illness, similar to influenza. This includes fever and respiratory symptoms such as cough, shortness of breath, and difficulty breathing.
What happens if I am delayed in returning to New Zealand?
If you are going to be delayed in arriving in New Zealand due to any coronavirus travel restrictions, please let us know. Email us at SAFELU@lincoln.ac.nz.
All students are encouraged to follow public advice when travelling. WHO’s advice to travellers is to follow the basic principles to reduce the general risk of acute respiratory infections.
These are:
- avoid close contact with people suffering acute respiratory infections
- frequently wash hands, especially after contact with ill people or their environment, or sanitise hands
- avoid close contact with sick live farm animals or wild animals
- people with symptoms of acute respiratory infection should practice cough etiquette (maintain distance, cover coughs and sneezes with disposable tissues or clothing, and wash hands).
If I am delayed in arriving in New Zealand, what is the latest date I can enrol?
If you are restricted in travelling you will not be disadvantaged. While semester one lectures begin on Monday 17 February, the enrolment deadline has been extended to 2 March.
Get in touch with us so we can support you in enrolling and communicating with your course advisor. Email SAFELU@Lincoln.ac.nz with your details.
Can I defer to semester two 2020?
Yes, we are here to support you. The university’s admission staff will discuss your deferment and how this will impact your visa and your study plan. Email SAFELU@Lincoln.ac.nz
What happens to my visa if I defer?
Advice will be offered, depending on your individual situation. Email us at SAFELU@lincoln.ac.nz
While I am seeing out my voluntary 14 day stay away, are you able to help me enrol? And can I start my study?
Yes, we are here to support you. While you will not be able to attend classes, labs, tutorials, field trips or design studios, we will help put a plan in place so that you don't fall behind with your studies. Email SAFELU@Lincoln.ac.nz with your details
What happens to my fees if I defer or withdraw?
If you defer to semester 2, 2020 or 2021 you will not be charged a withdrawal fee.
The SAFELU app will be used to communicate information about emergencies and provide emergency procedures, safety details, and contacts.