FAQs: Suspending Normal Operations

Q: When would Penn limit or suspend normal operations due to influenza? How would the University community be notified?

A: At this time, the Centers for Disease Control and the Philadelphia Department of Public Health are not recommending that educational institutions suspend classes or cancel large gatherings. However, it is possible that public health officials will recommend that Penn suspend normal operations in order to limit the spread of influenza. This scenario could include suspending classes or canceling large public gatherings such as athletic events and social programs. The length of a suspension of normal operations and the impact on educational and research programs would depend upon the severity of the pandemic and public health officials’ ongoing evaluation of the health risks.

If normal operations are suspended, the Penn community will be notified by email, a notice on the Penn homepage, and the emergency information telephone number, 215-898- MELT (6358).