Italy is the third most popular destination for study abroad programs at the University, and 48 students are studying there now.
But now, COVID-19, commonly known as the coronavirus, has spread to Italy, resulting in travel restrictions and class cancellations for UNC students in the country.
As of Thursday afternoon, more than 500 people in Italy had been diagnosed with the virus, with 14 cases in the country resulting in death, according to reports from the Washington Post.
Virginia Blanton, a junior majoring in journalism, is studying in Milan. She first heard about the outbreak on Saturday and her classes were canceled for the week.
“I felt like I was removed from the virus, but now it’s here,” Blanton said.
Chancellor Kevin Guskiewicz sent an email Wednesday night to the University community with information about the spread of the disease.
In the email, Guskiewicz said the University created a website for information about the virus and recommended following the travel advisories.
The University recommends students contact their study abroad directors and advisers with questions, Guskiewicz said in his statement.
Emily Ballsieper, a junior majoring in psychology at UNC, is studying in Florence. She first heard about the outbreak of coronavirus last week.