Dear UMB and UMMS Communities,

Yesterday, Gov. Larry Hogan instituted new travel restrictions for the state of Maryland that require that all Marylanders who travel outside of the state, and individuals who travel to Maryland from another state, to immediately get a COVID-19 test upon arrival in Maryland or within 72 hours before travel to Maryland. They must also quarantine until they get their test results.

In addition, the order suggests getting an additional COVID-19 test after 72 hours in Maryland. Travel by Marylanders to the District of Columbia, Virginia, Pennsylvania, Delaware and West Virginia is exempt from this testing requirement.

Additionally, we strongly advise that people refrain from nonessential travel and gatherings with people outside of current members of your household due to the recent and substantial increase in COVID-19 infections. If it is mandatory that you travel, or family or visitors are required to travel, you may need to consider changing the timing of any necessary travel to comply with Maryland’s testing and quarantine rules and return to school/work on time.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) says that travel, and hosting guests who travel to you, increases the chance of getting and spreading the virus that causes COVID-19. Staying home with only current members of your household is the best way to protect yourself and others.

As leaders within Maryland, we hope that everyone in the UMB and UMMS communities stays home when able and does everything possible to keep yourself and those you love and care for healthy.

Sincerely,

Bruce E. Jarrell, MD, FACS

President

University of Maryland, Baltimore

Mohan Suntha, MD, MBA

President and CEO

University of Maryland Medical System